LABOUR MINISTRY DECLARES NEW ESSENTIAL SERVICES

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Posted by admin on June 3, 2026 at 2:51 AM

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The Ministry of Labour and Social Security has announced that several critical sectors have officially been designated as essential services, following the gazetting of Statutory Instrument No.47 of 2026.

The declaration, signed by former Labour Minister Brenda Mwika Tambatamba and approved by Cabinet at its 9th Meeting on 14 May 2026, is cited as the Industrial and Labour Relations (Essential Service) (Declaration) Order, 2026.

The newly designated essential services include Air traffic control, Civil aviation security, Electoral services offered by ECZ employees, Toll point and weighbridge operations and Petroleum supply and distribution

Government explained that the decision followed extensive consultations with social partners through the Tripartite Consultative Labour Council, recognising the critical role these workers play in safeguarding peace, democracy, and economic stability.

The Ministry emphasised that the declaration is intended to protect workers’ rights while ensuring uninterrupted delivery of services vital to maintaining basic societal functions, particularly during emergencies such as pandemics, natural disasters, or national crises.

Employers in the designated sectors have been urged to issue Essential Service Certificates to identified employees, serving as official recognition of their role in maintaining minimum service levels during industrial disputes or emergencies.

Disputes arising from essential services will be referred to the Industrial Relations Court for speedy resolution, while employees are encouraged to familiarise themselves with their rights and responsibilities under the Industrial and Labour Relations Act.