The planetGOLD Zambia Project Champions Decent Work and Mercury-Free Mining at Rufunsa Labour Day Commemoration

On 1st May 2026, the planetGOLD Zambia Project joined the people of Rufunsa District in commemorating Labour Day, reaffirming its commitment to promoting decent work, safer mining practices and sustainable livelihoods among Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Miners.

The commemoration brought together traditional leaders, government representatives, miners and the general public to reflect on this year’s theme, which calls for securing the future of work through protection of jobs, skills development and strengthened pension systems.
Speaking during the event, Chief Bunda Bunda expressed gratitude to all workers in Rufunsa, including performing artists and traders, for their continued hard work and contribution to the district’s growth. 

He emphasised the need for all stakeholders to take responsibility in ensuring that jobs are not only created but secured, while also equipping workers with relevant skills to adapt to a changing world. 
He further called for inclusive pension schemes that cater for all workers, including those in the informal sector and urged both workers and employers to uphold discipline, fairness and integrity.
The Guest of Honour, Rufunsa District Commissioner Mr. Richard Mabena, described workers as the backbone of the economy and highlighted the changing nature of work driven by technology, climate change and other global factors. 

He reiterated government’s commitment to protecting jobs, strengthening social security systems and implementing pension reforms. These include allowing access to a portion of pension benefits under NAPSA during active employment, as well as extending coverage to workers in the informal sector such as traders and mobile money operators.
Dr. Peter Kakombe, a member of the District Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining Committee (DASGM) in Rufunsa District highlighted the importance of making mining safer, particularly by reducing reliance on mercury, which poses serious risks to human health and the environment. 

He noted that the planetGOLD Zambia Project is working closely with miners to promote mercury-free technologies, strengthen capacity through training and support the formalisation of the sector.
Dr. Kakombe further emphasised that decent work goes beyond employment, stressing the need for safe working conditions, access to skills and opportunities for improved livelihoods. He highlighted the role of grassroots governance structures such as the Community Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining (CASGM) in strengthening coordination, promoting responsible mining practices and ensuring that the needs of mining communities are addressed.

The commemoration concluded with a shared call for continued collaboration among stakeholders to invest in people, protect workers’ rights and build a future where every worker is valued, every job is respected and every citizen has the opportunity to live and retire with dignity.