Maravi

(LUSAKATIMES) State prioritizes job creation

State prioritizes job creation
Thursday, April 30, 2009, 11:20

Government has prioritized job creation by endeavoring to attract investors into the country. Labour and Social Security Minister Austin Liato says government has since created a conducive environment for investment inflow.

Mr. Liato said the vision of government is to continue encouraging new investments whilst creating a conducive environment for existing business entities.

He was speaking during the National Milling Cooperation Limited staff recognition awards day in Lusaka last evening.

Mr. Liato further said government would endeavor to look at labour reforms for the benefit of both employees and employers.

He said a motivated workforce and industrial harmony is cardinal for entrepreneurship to flourish which translates into job creation and security.

The minister said a motivated workforce is essential for the success of any business venture and has potential to drive the country’s economy forward.

Mr. Liato commended National Milling for coming up with such an initiative to award its workers for their input into the company.

Meanwhile, Mr. Liato urged National Milling to help stabilize the price of mealie meal as it a leading player in the country’s milling industry.

Mr. Liato said the current price of mealie meal is unacceptable as retailers are taking advantage of the present situation to exploit consumers.

National Milling Managing Director, Peter Cottan said his firm has placed much emphasis on the plight of its workers to increase the workplace productivity.

Mr. Cottan further assured government that the company has no plans of retrenching its workforce despite the global economic downturn.

Zambia Congress of Trade Union (ZCTU) President Leonard Hikaumba said employers should regard their human resource highly if they are to have an increased productivity.

Mr. Hikaumba said most of the companies that have failed to deliver in the country are those that had little regard for their workers.

He however appealed to employers in the country to give incentives to their workers and also establish a good working relationship.

ZANIS/GP/AM/ENDS

Labels: AUSTIN LIATO, JOBS

posted by MrK @ 2:34 PM