MINISTER of Labour and Social Security Brenda Tambatamba has warned employers against letting their employees work without off days, calling the practice unacceptable and illegal.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1GSSHSQCYR
Tambatamba stated that all workers regardless of their job type, need at least one day of rest to restore their energy and maintain productivity.
The minister underscored the mutual benefits of lawful and ethical treatment of workers, noting that productivity and profits tend to rise when employees are well cared for.
She stated that providing workers with an off day is not optional but a legal requirement.
“Workers who are respected and protected by the law give back more. When they thrive, so does your business. They are entitled to a one day off, don’t take advantage of that,” she said.
Tambatamba also urged employers to recognise the powerful role that employees play as representatives of their companies.
“They carry your name beyond the workplace. When they speak positively about how they’re treated, your reputation grows. That kind of word-of-mouth is priceless,” she said:
She warned that treating workers as inferior or disposable is a recipe of failure.
“If you look down on your employees, you’re setting your own operations up to collapse. That’s how businesses shoot themselves in the foot,” the minister said.
She said investing in employees’ abilities strengthens the entire operation and growing their potential leads to increased profitability.
Tambatamba called for workplaces where dialogue is encouraged, not punished.
She added that workers must be confident that they can raise concerns without fear of losing their jobs.
Furthermore, Tambatamba called for an end to the practice of paying workers below the minimum wage, emphasising that fair compensation is fundamental to protecting workers’ rights and ensuring a motivated, productive workforce.
“Equally important is ensuring workers receive at least the minimum wage, as fair pay is key to upholding their dignity and encouraging greater commitment.”
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba September 24, 2025
