TAMBATAMBA CALLS ON PEMBE MILLING TO END CASUALISATION AND UPHOLD WORKERS’ RIGHTS

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Posted by admin on September 8, 2025 at 4:12 AM

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Minister of Labour and Social Security Brenda Tambatamba has issued a firm directive to Pembe Milling in Lusaka, urging the company to eliminate casualisation, formalize employment contracts, and fully comply with Zambian labour laws.

Following an inspection of the milling plant on Friday, Tambatamba revealed that her ministry had identified both progress and gaps, particularly in areas such as employment contracts, occupational health and safety and workers’ representation.

She disclosed that Pembe management admitted to employing staff without formal contracts a practice that contributes to casualisation and undermines workers’ rights. Tambatamba emphasized that every employee, regardless of tenure, must be formally contracted and must be registered under NAPSA, NHIMA, and the Workers’ Compensation Fund

“The health of the organisation is measured by the level of compliance on the different facets of the law,” Tambatamba stated.

On health and safety, the Minister stressed that protective gear must go beyond basic uniforms. Workers in milling plants require specialized footwear, headgear, and respiratory equipment to prevent injuries and safeguard their well-being.

Tambatamba also raised concern over the absence of a workers’ union at Pembe Milling, urging management to respect employees’ constitutional right to union representation and allow union leaders to engage freely with staff.

“Pembe, you have an opportunity to grow, to take the lead and become a model in the labour market of Zambia,” she said.

Ms Tambatamba gave Pembe management a deadline of October 31, 2025, to resolve outstanding issues and align with labour regulations.

She pledged that her ministry would provide support and oversight, but also ensure accountability.

Her intervention aligns with the broader decent work, social protection, and compliance enforcement, as outlined in recent engagements with trade unions and employers.