President Hichilema Enacts New Law to Boost Worker Safety in Zambia
President Hichilema Signs Occupational Health and Safety Act to Strengthen Worker Protection Across Zambia
President Hakainde Hichilema has assented to the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act No. 16 of 2025, marking a major step toward enhancing workplace safety and preventing occupational diseases across all sectors of the Zambian economy.
The Ministry of Labour and Social Security confirmed that the legislation, formerly known as the Occupational Health and Safety Bill No. 17 of 2025, was signed into law on 23 December 2025.
The new Act expands the scope of occupational health services beyond mining, allowing the Occupational Health and Safety Institute to cover all industries.
Since 1945, occupational health services in Zambia have largely focused on mining, leaving workers in other sectors without adequate protection from work-related illnesses.
Under the Act, workplaces are now required to establish health and safety committees with equal representation from employers and employees.
The law also strengthens enforcement mechanisms, granting enhanced powers to authorised officers to ensure compliance and accountability.
These measures are designed to promote shared responsibility between employers and workers while raising safety standards nationwide.
Permanent Secretary Zechariah Luhanga urged the Occupational Health and Safety Institute to ensure effective implementation of the Act in alignment with national development goals and internationally recognised occupational safety standards.
The Ministry described the legislation as a significant milestone in Zambia’s efforts to improve worker welfare, reduce workplace accidents, and eliminate occupational diseases.
