Zambia reaffirms commitment to productivity and decent work
The Government of Zambia has restated its strong commitment to improving productivity and promoting decent work as key drivers of national development.
25 July 2025
ZAMBIA, Lusaka (ILO News) - The Minister of Labour and Social Security, Brenda Tambatamba, reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to inclusive economic growth and decent work during a high-level breakfast meeting held on 24 July 2025 at Sarovar Hotel, Lusaka.
The event convened senior government officials, development partners, private sector leaders, and other stakeholders to discuss the implementation of Productivity Ecosystems for Decent Work initiative.
In her remarks, Minister Tambatamba stressed the importance of working together to achieve inclusive growth, economic recovery, and poverty reduction.
“Improving productivity is not just about business growth— it is also about creating quality jobs and ensuring social stability,” she said.
She noted that Zambia was facing low productivity and high levels of informal employment, stating that these issues contribute to poor working conditions, lack of social protection, gender inequality, and low wages.
To tackle these challenges, the Ministry in collaboration with the International Labour Organisation (ILO), is developing a Productivity Ecosystem for Decent Work on three levels:
- Macro: Strengthening national policies and legal framework,
- Meso: Enhancing sector-level coordination and support, and
- Micro: Supporting individual businesses and workers.
Key focus areas include skills development, innovation, digital transformation, and inclusive labour market policies. The Minister identified livestock, tourism, and renewable energy as priority sectors aligned with Zambia’s economic diversification and empowerment agenda.
By focusing on these sectors, we aim to boost productivity and create decent jobs. This is how we ensure economic growth benefits everyone.
Brenda Tambatamba, Minister of Labour and Social Security, Zambia
ILO Country Office Director for Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique, Mr. Wellington Chibebe praised the Ministry’s leadership and reaffirmed the ILO’s support.
Most Zambians work in small businesses and face many challenges, from low productivity to limited access to finance and skills. This initiative is not just about productivity, it’s about investing in people and building a fairer economy.
Wellington Chibebe, ILO Country Office Director for Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique
Mr. Chibebe reaffirmed the ILO’s readiness to support Zambia with global expertise, practical tools, and a long-standing commitment to social justice.
