By Burnett Munthali
President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to improving the welfare of Malawian workers, acknowledging the economic and labour-related challenges they continue to face across the country. Speaking during the 2025 Labour Day celebrations held at Balaka Stadium, the President emphasized that his administration is fully aware of the issues workers endure—from low wages and high living costs to violations of labour rights in many workplaces.
This year’s Labour Day commemoration was held under the theme: “Democracy that Works for Decent Work for All.” In his address, President Chakwera attributed some of the workers’ economic hardships to exploitative trading practices, where businesses take advantage of the economic climate to unjustifiably raise prices of essential commodities beyond the reach of ordinary citizens.
“When I got into government, I wanted to change the welfare of all civil servants and all workers,” said Chakwera. “As a way of fulfilling this, I instituted a K100,000 tax-free band so that we uplift the welfare of the people.”
Turning to the issue of labour injustices, the President assured the nation that his government, through the Ministry of Labour, will continue engaging employers and companies to ensure that workers’ rights are fully protected and respected. He stressed the importance of fair treatment in the workplace, adding that continuous dialogue with stakeholders remains key to resolving such challenges.
The President of the Malawi Congress of Trade Union (MCTU), Charles Kumchenga, used the platform to appeal to the government to consider promoting civil servants across different grades, noting that many have remained in the same positions for years without advancement. He also commended the Ministry of Labour for its proactive inspections, which led to the closure of companies found violating labour laws—giving them the opportunity to correct their practices.
As part of the day’s activities, President Chakwera officially launched the National Code of Conduct on Violence and Harassment in the World of Work. The code represents a milestone in the country’s labour policy, developed through comprehensive consultations among stakeholders and social partners. It aims to eliminate violence and harassment in various workplaces, providing employees with a safer, more respectful environment.
The Labour Day commemoration served not only as a celebration of workers’ contributions to national development, but also as a call for deeper reform, equity, and accountability in Malawi’s labour sector.