Tambatamba urges trade unions to champion mine workers’ welfare

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MINISTER of Labour and Social Security Brenda Mwika Tambatamba has called on the African Federation of Miners and Mineral Wealth to prioritise the welfare of workers in the mining sector.

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She said improving workers’ conditions aligns with the government’s development aspirations and commitment to economic transformation.

Speaking during a business dinner hosted by the Federation in Lusaka on Friday, Tambatamba urged the organisation to advocate for better conditions of service for mine workers.

The event was part of a five-day exchange programme organised by the Federation and hosted by the Mine Workers’ Union of Zambia (MUZ) from January 16 to 21, 2025.

The programme aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation and share knowledge about the mining sector.

“When President Hakainde Hichilema talks about the Champions League, this is what he means. We are growing workers’ organisations. This government says it shall not walk alone without the workers of Zambia, and neither will the workers stand alone. We value Tripartism and see workers’ organizations as social partners in shaping policy and regulatory frameworks for the mining sector,” said Tambatamba.

Further, the minister reiterated that economic transformation and job creation remain central to the government’s development agenda and encouraged trade unions to collaborate with the government in advancing workers’ welfare.

And African Federation of Miners and Mineral Wealth Assistant Treasurer Ashraf Shehata highlighted the importance of Africa’s natural resources in driving sustainable development.

“If we don’t defend these resources, on which sustainable development depends, who will defend us? We aim to establish a company for all unions to exploit and benefit from Africa’s natural resources,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mineworkers Union of Zambia (MUZ) President, Joseph Chewe commended President Hichilema and Tambatamba for their leadership in fostering industrial harmony.

“We need to ensure that there are no more strikes in the mining sector, and we are grateful for the government’s efforts in achieving this,” said Chewe.

By Buumba Mwitumwa

Kalemba January 20, 2025

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