The Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Brenda Tambatamba, MP, has launched a landmark partnership between the Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) and the Funeral Services Group (FSG) aimed at enhancing social welfare and protection for Zambian workers and their families.
Speaking during the official launch ceremony, Hon. Tambatamba commended the ZCTU and FSG for their forward-looking initiative, describing it as a life-changing collaboration that will bring dignity, relief, and solidarity to workers during difficult times.
“This partnership is part of the broader national social protection ecosystem and will contribute to government’s goal of building a comprehensive, resilient, and people-centred social security system that protects workers from many forms of vulnerability,” Hon. Tambatamba said.
The Minister noted that in Zambia’s cultural and social context, bereavement often extends beyond the immediate family to the wider community, placing a significant financial burden on workers. She explained that the ZCTU–FSG partnership seeks to cushion workers and their families by providing structured funeral and welfare services that promote dignity and stability during such times.
“For most workers, these situations often create financial strain that goes beyond their regular means. Therefore, this ZCTU-FSG partnership seeks to cushion workers by providing structured funeral and welfare services that bring dignity, relief, and solidarity to families during difficult moments,” she explained.
Hon. Tambatamba reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to improving the welfare of all Zambian workers under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, emphasizing that social protection remains a key pillar of national development.
She highlighted ongoing government reforms aimed at strengthening worker welfare, including the partial withdrawal of NAPSA contributions, which enables workers to access part of their pension savings to improve their livelihoods before retirement.
“This initiative demonstrates what can be achieved when we unite under a common purpose the welfare and dignity of our workers,” the Minister stated.
“Let this partnership serve as a model for other innovative collaborations that enhance the quality of life for our citizens.”
Mr Mulala stated that the partnership will enable workers to access affordable, reliable and dignified funeral services, not only for their immediate families but also for their extended families.
He further called on all affiliate unions to take advantage of the partnership and enroll their members under the scheme.
Meanwhile, Funeral Service Group Zambia Limited Chairperson, Padmore Muleya said FSG’s focus is not just on business, but on delivering quality services to the workers of Zambia and the public at large.
Mr Muleya revealed that FSG has procured two utility vehicles to support the implementation of the project as a way of showing commitment to the partnership.
Concluding her remarks, Hon. Tambatamba officially launched the ZCTU–FSG Partnership, expressing confidence that it would play a significant role in enhancing social welfare and protection for all Zambian workers and their families.
“It is my singular honour and privilege to officially launch this partnership, aimed at enhancing social welfare and protection for all Zambian workers and their families,” she declared. “I thank you.”