Zambian govt warns local truck drivers harassing foreign counterparts over alleged takeover of their jobs

The Zambian government has expressed concern over reports of local truck drivers harassing foreign counterparts, warning that such actions were unlawful and threaten public order.

This followed complaints from Zambian truck driver groups who claimed that foreign drivers were taking jobs at local companies, disadvantaging Zambian drivers.

According to Permanent Secretary Josephs Akafumba from the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security, tanker drivers have formally lodged their grievances with the government.

Akafumba, in a statement issued on Sunday, cautioned Zambian drivers against assuming the role of law enforcement.

“We strongly warn all Zambian truck drivers to desist from such actions to avoid the long arm of the law. We call for calm and restraint as we address these issues in a lawful and systematic manner,” Akafumba stated.

He reassured the public that the government was actively working with stakeholders to resolve the concerns of local truck drivers while upholding international obligations and fair employment practices.

In response to complaints submitted on November 22, 2024, the Department of Immigration held a meeting with the Zambia Union of Tanker Drivers and Allied Workers to address the issues raised.

Akafumba further disclosed that on December 17, 2024, the Ministry of Home Affairs convened a multi-stakeholder meeting that included the Labour Commission, the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA), the Zambia Union of Tanker Drivers, and the Department of Immigration.

“The meeting focused on reviewing the drivers’ concerns and identifying sustainable solutions,” he added.

The Permanent Secretary also revealed that inspections on companies’ compliance with labour and immigration laws have been intensified in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and RTSA to address the complaints effectively.

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