CAZ Calls on Political Parties to Address the Plight of Domestic Workers, Cleaners and Security Guards

By Elias Chulu

The Cleaners Association of Zambia (CAZ) has called on presidential and parliamentary candidates to address the plight of domestic workers, cleaners and security guards ahead of the general elections scheduled for August 2026.

CAZ President Lawrence Makumbi warned that hundreds of thousands of maids, cleaners and tens of thousands of security guards, who he said form a crucial voting bloc, have been left behind in political promises.

Mr Makumbi described widespread non‑compliance with minimum wage rules and poor working conditions for these workers.

He noted that many cleaners receive as little as K700 to K1,500 monthly, despite an official minimum wage for some categories being around K2,300.

“The cost of living for the maid, the cleaner and the security guard has gone so high. We are failing to afford three‑square meals,” Mr Makumbi said, adding that current food-basket costs exceed K10,000 in Lusaka, placing severe strain on low-paid workers who must also cover transport and other basic expenses.

The CAZ president has urged candidates at all levels, presidential, parliamentary and local council to make clear commitments on wages and conditions of service for domestic and low‑paid workers.

He has therefore called for stronger enforcement by the Ministry of Labour and for laws and penalties that ensure employers comply with prescribed wages.

The association is demanding concrete policy proposals and assurances from candidates, including a commitment to ensure payment of the statutory minimum wage and improved protections for cleaners and security guards.

CAZ said it will hold politicians to account after the elections and push for urgent action from the next Minister of Labour to improve enforcement and raise wages for these sectors.