Lilongwe, Malawi – May 1, 2025 — Malawi joined the global community in celebrating International Labour Day with a renewed pledge to uphold workers’ rights and improve labour standards across the country. Minister of Labour, Peter Dimba, hailed President Lazarus Chakwera for his steadfast dedication to honouring workers since taking office in 2020.
Speaking during Labour Day commemorations, Dimba praised the President’s consistent presence at labour events as a clear signal of the administration’s recognition of the vital role workers play in driving national development.
“This continued engagement from the Head of State highlights the government’s deep appreciation for the contribution of workers to the economic and social growth of our nation,” Dimba said. He further emphasized his ministry’s unwavering commitment to eliminating workplace abuse and ensuring that labour rights are fully respected.
Dimba also assured the public that the government remains vigilant in safeguarding workers’ freedoms, including their right to organize and to work in a safe and dignified environment.
In a statement marking the day, President Chakwera reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to improving conditions for Malawi’s workforce. “Today, being International Labour Day, we celebrate the dedication of our workers who toil every day to gain economic and social stability of their respective households and the nation,” said Chakwera.
The President outlined key reforms undertaken since 2020, including repeated increases in the minimum wage and revisions to the tax-free income bracket—efforts aimed at boosting take-home pay for low-income earners. Chakwera also disclosed that government inspectors are actively conducting nationwide inspections to ensure strict enforcement of labour laws and to curb exploitation.
“This exercise will continue up until every employer adheres to every piece of legislation,” he added, underscoring his administration’s resolve to make workplaces safer and more equitable.
As Malawi stands in solidarity with workers around the world, the message from leadership is clear: building a resilient, inclusive economy begins with respect for those who build it every day.
