By Staff Writer
Government has implored trade unions to rise above their differences and divisions in order to serve workers better by ensuring decent terms and conditions of service in work places.
Speaking at the labour day commemoration in Mufulira district, Technology and Science Minister Felix Mutati said it is government’s desire and encouragement for the labour movement to speak with one strong voice for the welfare of employees through social dialogue focused at enhancing workers’ rights.
The 2022 labour day commemoration is under the theme; Accelerating socio-economic transformation through sustainable and decent job creation amidst COVID-19.
Mr Mutati said Government has provided enabling legislation and environment for workers to voice out and join trade unions of their choice in respective sectors, whose purpose of establishment was to speak for the workers and ensure the signing of meaningful agreements for terms and conditions of service.
And Mr Mutati has reminded workers that those who lack knowledge about their rights will be trampled upon by the employer, hence the need for all trade union leaders to prioritize worker education on provisions of the labour laws.
Meanwhile, Mr Mutati said the New Dawn administration has made the creation of decent jobs in the economy a top priority as demonstrated through the recruitment of 30,000 teachers and over 11,000 health workers within the first seven months in office.
He further said in order to revive the struggling economy, government will concentrate more on programs and projects that will have a significant impact while working with limited resources which is critical to successful transformation.
Mr Mutati also said government recognizes that all efforts to achieve socio-economic development will only be meaningful if corruption is stopped and as such, the New Dawn administration is committed to fighting corruption, stating that no amount of destruction will frustrate the resolve.
He said the fight against corruption in both public and private sectors must be embraced and supported by every well-meaning Zambian and this administration brings high quality leadership to the table, with the ability to guide towards achieving favourable national socio-economic status through effective policy implementation.
He noted that government will as well always consider employees important to the development process of the country with a commitment to always protect and support them.
And speaking at the same occasion, representative of the Zambia Congress of Trade Unions on the Copperbelt, Henry Chama said has assured government that the labour movement will ensure workers endeavor to increase productivity levels in order to positively contribute to socio-economic reconstruction of the country.
Mr Chama said the workers also have high expectations from government especially towards addressing the the rising cost of living amongst the people which is a matter of serious concern of which government should introduce measures to reverse.
Mr Chama also said ZCTU will continue with its policy of political non-partisanship and work with the government of the day.
