Government Takes Decisive Action to Protect Zambian Workers in DRC

The Zambian government is actively addressing the serious security concerns facing Zambian truck drivers operating in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Labour and Social Security Minister Brenda Tambatamba has confirmed.

Speaking at the prestigious SADC-EU-Africa Social Face Regional Conference in Livingstone, Minister Tambatamba emphasised President Hakainde Hichilema's unwavering commitment to worker safety.

The Minister reassured stakeholders that protecting Zambian workers in the transport sector remains a top government priority, with concrete measures being developed to address the ongoing challenges in the DRC.

In a related development demonstrating the government's proactive approach to labour issues, Permanent Secretary Zachariah Luhanga announced that the ministry has received authorisation to recruit specialised call centre agents. This initiative will create a dedicated service to handle labour-related concerns more efficiently, ensuring workers have direct access to support and assistance.

The announcement comes as the Zambia Congress of Trade Unions expressed concern over attacks affecting their affiliated members. ZCTU Secretary General Joy Beene highlighted the importance of extending social dialogue and labour protections to include the informal sector, particularly women and youth workers.