ZUTDAW Demands Government Action on Poor Working Conditions, Threatens Strike
By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia24 – (18-08-2024) – The Zambia Union of Truck Drivers and Allied Workers (ZUTDAW) has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the government to address severe working conditions for drivers or face a potential strike.
At a media briefing today, ZUTDAW General Secretary John Changwe highlighted several critical issues affecting drivers, including the lack of employment contracts, non-payment of NAPSA contributions, and hazardous working environments.
Changwe criticized the increasing use of labor brokers, which he claims undermines fair employment practices.
Drawing parallels with South Africa, where similar practices led to public outcry and xenophobia, Changwe warned against adopting such practices in Zambia.
He accused labor brokers, including RFP, of corruption and unfair recruitment practices, and backed his claims with transaction evidence.
Another pressing concern is the outdated calibration meters at the Tazama depot in Lusaka.
The union is demanding an upgrade to digital meters to ensure accurate calibrations. Changwe also called for improved labor practices, urging the Ministry of Labor to enforce the Employment Code Act of 2019, particularly regarding the payment of gratuities and leave days.
He warned of potential protests if these issues remain unaddressed.
Safety is also a major concern, Changwe said, particularly for tanker drivers who transport hazardous materials.
He criticized the lack of insurance and proper working conditions for these drivers, who are often forced to sleep in their trucks.
Changwe urged the government to support trade unions in negotiating better conditions and to provide insurance coverage.
He also referenced promises made by the current administration regarding driver’s licenses and support measures introduced by the previous government, such as fuel discounts and minimum wage support.
Expressing disappointment that these promises have yet to materialize, Changwe criticized the Ministry of Labor for its inadequate response to drivers’ concerns.
ZUTDAW President Shaft Mubanga expressed regret over the government’s failure to protect drivers, who, he said, are constantly subjected to inhumane treatment.
Mubanga decried the lack of action, emphasizing that drivers often endure long hours, unsafe conditions, and exploitation, which he believes the government has done little to prevent.
Mubanga further called on the government to honor its obligations to the workers, warning that continued neglect could lead to large-scale protests. “The patience of the drivers has limits,” Mubanga said.
“If these issues are not resolved, the protests could become unbearable for the government. We are giving the authorities a chance to act before the situation escalates beyond control.”
He urged the government to prioritize the welfare of drivers, noting that their grievances have been ignored for too long.
Mubanga stressed that drivers are the backbone of the country’s economy, ensuring the continuous flow of goods and services. “Without truck drivers, Zambia’s economy would grind to a halt,” he said.
“It’s time the government recognizes this and fulfills its promises before the frustrations boil over into something far more difficult to manage.”
Mubanga also advised the public not to confuse the union’s actions as politically motivated.
He emphasized that the ongoing efforts are aimed solely at protecting the rights and interests of drivers who continue to face injustice in the workplace.
“This is not a political activity; it is a fight for justice for our members,” Mubanga clarified.
“We are not aligned with any political party but are focused on ensuring that truck drivers are treated with dignity and fairness.”
He reiterated that the union’s demands are centered on improving the working conditions of drivers and not on political agendas.
“Our primary responsibility is to the drivers,” Mubanga said.
“This action is designed to correct the wrongs they have suffered and ensure that their voices are heard. We will not be distracted by any attempts to politicize our cause.”
In addition, Mubanga urged the government to avoid prioritizing foreign truckers at the expense of local drivers.
He argued that local drivers should be given preference when it comes to employment and opportunities within Zambia.
“Our local drivers deserve the same respect and opportunities as any other truckers,” Mubanga said.
“It is disheartening to see foreign truckers being prioritized while our own people suffer. The government must put local drivers first to ensure fairness and justice in the industry.”
Despite acknowledging some support from Copperbelt Province Minister Elisha Matambo and Minister of Commerce Chipoka Mulenga, Changwe accused the Ministry of Labor of neglecting drivers’ issues and even attempting to undermine the union.
With the UPND government failing to address these long-standing problems, the union is prepared to take further action if necessary.