WCFCB AND ZUFIAW SIGNS A NEW COLLECTIVE AGREEMENT
Lusaka, Zambia – Friday 9th May 2025 | Location: The Urban Hotel
The Workers’ Compensation Fund Control Board (WCFCB) and the Zambia Union of Financial Institutions and Allied Workers (ZUFIAW) have successfully concluded and signed a new collective agreement, demonstrating unity, professionalism, and a shared commitment to workers’ welfare. Present at the signing ceremony were ZUFIAW President Mr. Charles Mukuka, General Secretary and CEO Mr. Kasapo Sundrea Kabende, the Bargaining Unit Chairperson Mr. Patrick Kasonde and the Branch Executive Leaders from Lusaka, Ndola and Kitwe.
Mr. Mukuka commended the leadership that shaped the negotiation process, particularly praising the Chairperson for providing clarity and direction on a number of issues which led to a swift and efficient conclusion. He expressed gratitude to the Secretariat for their behind-the-scenes efforts and lauded the WCFCB team for engaging with honesty and openness. He further recognized the calming influence of specific individuals during the negotiations and applauded the ZUFIAW team for their unity and discipline, calling them “exceptional.”
ZUFIAW General Secretary and CEO Mr. Kasapo Sundrea Kabende echoed the significance of the agreement and linked it to the Labour Day theme, “Shaping Zambia’s Future of Work through Home Grown Solutions for Inclusive Economic Growth.” He emphasized the need for institutions like WCFCB to innovate locally driven solutions and reward employees to foster a motivated workforce. Reflecting on the challenges, he noted that while the Emoluments Commission had hindered the collective bargaining process in recent years, ZUFIAW remained focused on securing cost-reflective increments. He called for the prompt conclusion of related processes, underscoring that doing so would boost productivity among the employees at the Board. In concluding his remarks, the General Secretary reaffirmed the National Executive Council’s support to the Branch Executive and most importantly the members at WCFCB and all the affiliate institutions.
Representing WCFCB management, Director of Finance Mrs. Michelo Silungwe emphasized the mutual respect and teamwork that characterized the negotiations. She credited the Chairperson’s guidance for anchoring the process and commended the Bargaining Unit’s performance as a reflection of shared values. She thanked ZUFIAW for their constructive engagement and noted that despite a rocky start, both parties found their rhythm and concluded the process after three (3) days of negotiating.
The new agreement grants WCFCB unionised staff a 5% salary increment and 10% increase in housing allowance, this outcome is a clear collaborative between the Employer and the Union in addressing the welfare of workers at the Board. This milestone reaffirms the relevance of dialogue, recognition, and innovation in driving home grown solutions for inclusive economic growth.
