By Rebecca Chimjeka Matemba:
The Malawi Congress of Trade Unions (MCTU) has called for urgent action to address widespread violations of labour laws following inspections conducted by the Ministry of Labour.
In a statement signed by MCTU President Charles Kumchenga and Secretary General Madalitso Njolomole, the body says the inspections, led by Labour Minister Vitumbiko Mumba, have uncovered significant decent work deficits, including inadequate protective equipment, unhygienic working conditions, low wages and a lack of worker representation.
“We are urging the government to expand labour inspections, allocate more resources to the Ministry of Labour and integrate trade unions into inspection processes,” Kumchenga said.
Mumba said he was supporting the integrated labour inspection idea.
“It’s my belief that budgetary allocations will be improved for the ministry to intensify labour inspections, especially at the district level. This shows our commitment to transparency and accountability for the decisions that we make,” Mumba said.
