KHALIF motors, a logistic company in Ndola has been asked to solve its problems with the Zambia Union of Tanker Drivers and Allied Workers through face to face talks instead of going to court.
Labour Commissioner Givens Muntengwa made the appeal after it was reported that more than 69 fuel trucks were left parked along the road in Ndola.
This was because drivers were protesting months of unpaid wages and allowances.
Muntengwa called both the company and the union to a meeting to find a better way forward, asserting that resorting into engaging the courts of law will take too long and can harm both sides.
“It’s better to talk and work together than to waste time in court,” Muntengwa said.
During an engagement yesterday, discussions showed that confusion between local and national union leaders helped cause the protest, as drivers were demanding months of unpaid wages and allowances.
Khalif Motors General Manager Ibrahim Khalif, criticised the union leaders for failing to lead effectively and not taking their responsibilities seriously.
Khalif emphasised that the union must handle grievances of drivers by sticking to the rules set out in the company’s contracts and the country’s labor rule.
“We are open to dialogue, we are ready to talk but the union should follow proper steps in raising complaints, based on the company’s agreement and Labour laws. We might decide to cancel the court case but we will need to first engage other relevant stakeholders,” he said:
Union general secretary John Changwe admitted there had been confusion within the union.
Changwe promised to keep working with the company to protect workers’ rights and called for better communication from management to avoid future problems.
And the commissioner further urged both parties to rebuild trust and settle matters peacefully.
“You are not enemies but independent partners who coexist for the industry to survive,” he added.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba October 4, 2025
