ZCTU, Human Rights Commission condemn workplace violence, call for women empowerment

The Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has raised concern over cases of workplace harassment and gender-based violence affecting women workers, describing the situation as unacceptable. ZCTU Secretary-General, Joy Beene, also called for increased efforts to empower women within the labour movement, stating that gender equality remained critical to building strong and inclusive trade unions. “The labour movement should deliberately create space for women and young workers to participate in decision-making and leadership positions,” he said.

He argued that trade unions that failed to include women risked weakening their structures and failing to adequately represent the interests of all workers. “Empowering women strengthens the labour movement by bringing fresh perspectives, innovative ideas and inclusive leadership,” Beene said. Beene said empowering women was not only a union priority but also an important step toward building a stronger labour movement and achieving sustainable national development.

According to him, unions become more democratic and responsive when women are actively involved in shaping policies and negotiating for workers’ rights. He urged affiliate unions to strengthen women’s structures within their organisations to ensure they are active and effective. He also encouraged unions to invest in leadership development through training programmes aimed at equipping women with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively represent workers. Commission Chairperson, Pamela Towela-Sambo, said that while the law permitted private persons to effect an arrest where there was reasonable suspicion that a criminal offence has been committed, the manner in which the Zamfresh employee was restrained was unreasonable, excessive and unlawful.