Government has fined Rhino Carriers Limited K85,000 following an inspection that uncovered multiple labour law violations at the company’s premises along Mungwi Road in Lusaka.
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The inspection was prompted by an anonymous complaint alleging poor labour practices at the transport firm.
Investigations revealed that the company had failed to issue written contracts to its 72 employees, contrary to section 22 of the Employment Code.
For this violation, the company was fined K35,000.
The firm also lacked the required workplace policies, an offence under section 96 of the law, attracting a further K30,000 penalty.
The company further employed an unregistered individual to perform Human Resource and Relations functions.
It was revealed that for over four years, Rhino carriers never had a qualified human resource manager.
When questioned, the person denied ever holding such a position, leading to an additional K20,000 charge.
“In total, Rhino Carriers has been charged K85,000 for non-compliance with labour laws. However, should the company provide documentation to prove otherwise on the HR matter, the K20,000 will be waived,” labour commissioner Givens Muntengwa said.
The Labour Commissioner also ordered the company to pay salary arrears and gratuities to its drivers after it was established that they were being paid K3,000 as a basic salary, below the statutory K4,000 minimum wage.
He directed the company to compute and settle the arrears, including gratuities, by October 1, 2025.
“Our mandate is not to close down companies, but to ensure they comply with the law and treat their employees fairly,” stated Muntengwa.
Story and Pictures by George Musonda
Kalemba September 17, 2025
