The Government has officially designated electoral services provided by employees of the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), air traffic control services, civil aviation security, toll point and weighbridge operations, and the supply and distribution of petroleum as essential services following the gazetting of Statutory Instrument No. 47 of 2026.
According to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, the declaration took effect under the Industrial and Labour Relations (Essential Service) (Declaration) Order, 2026, issued pursuant to Section 107(10)(g) of the Industrial and Labour Relations Act. The statutory instrument was signed by former Labour and Social Security Minister Brenda Mwika Tambatamba after Cabinet approval on May 14, 2026.
The ministry says the decision followed consultations with social partners through the Tripartite Consultative Labour Council and recognizes the critical role workers in these sectors play in maintaining national peace, democracy, economic stability, and the uninterrupted delivery of key services.
The designation is expected to support the continued movement of goods and services, protect road infrastructure and safety, maintain petroleum supply chains, and ensure the effective management of free, fair, and credible elections, particularly during emergencies and national crises.
Government has urged employers in the affected sectors to identify employees performing essential functions and issue them with Essential Service Certificates as required by law. The certificates will facilitate the uninterrupted provision of services during industrial disputes or other situations requiring minimum service levels.
The ministry has also reminded stakeholders that disputes involving essential services should be referred to the Industrial Relations Court for speedy resolution and encouraged designated workers to familiarize themselves with their rights and responsibilities under the law.
By Rachel Mumba
