By Jones Gadama

The Ministry of Labour has launched a nationwide Decent Work Awareness Campaign to educate workers on their rights and improve workplace conditions. The campaign, launched in Blantyre at Bakhresa Malawi offices, aims to empower employees and reduce conflicts between employers and workers.

Director of Legal Services in the Ministry, Ofwa Alide, disclosed that many workers lack knowledge of labour laws, leading to disputes, especially on overtime and probation. “This initiative will empower employees and reduce conflicts,” Alide said.

The campaign will provide workers with the necessary knowledge to assert their rights and promote better working conditions.

Bakhresa Malawi Limited’s Human Resource Manager, Richard Tchereko, welcomed the move, stating that better working conditions will boost productivity and contribute to the country’s economic growth. “Improved working conditions will not only benefit employees but also employers, as it will lead to increased productivity and efficiency,” Tchereko said.

Occupational Safety Expert at Zantchito programme, Johanes Mandowa, pointed out a major knowledge gap between employers and workers but expressed optimism that the campaign will bridge it.

The campaign is timely, given the alarming global statistics that reveal 2.38 million workers die annually due to unsafe working conditions.

The Decent Work Awareness Campaign is funded by the European Union and implemented under the Zantchito programme.

The initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to promoting decent work and improving the welfare of workers in Malawi.

By educating workers on their rights and promoting better working conditions, the campaign is expected to have a positive impact on the country’s economic growth and development.