MOL, IOM IN A JOINT EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES MAPPING EXERCISE

Amidst growing concerns of the exploitation of labor migrants by private employment agencies, the Ministry of Labour in conjunction with the International Organisation for Migration, embarked on a mapping exercise of Lilongwe based employment agencies.

IOM Program Manager Jeremiah Joshua, said the exercise comes against the background of the troubling realities facing migrants seeking better opportunities abroad.  According to Joshua, there is an alarming trend of incidences of morden-day slavery, where employers take advantage and exploits migrants seeking better opportunities abroad hence the need to put in place deliberate measure to ensuring that the labour migration process is conducted with dignity and respect for human rights.

“This is why we are collaborating with the Ministry of Labour to safeguard migrants from exploitation and ensure that their migration for employment purposes is conducted transparently and ethically. However, this can only be done if the migrants follow the proper procedures to prevent them from falling victim to exploitation,” said Joshua.

While commending the good work by the agencies in facilitating efficient job placement, Deputy Labor Commissioner, Wafwile Musukwa, emphasized on the need for them to align themselves with international labour standards.

“Private employment agencies play a critical role in ensuring the safety of local labour market participants, especially those working abroad. Therefore, there is a need for collaboration between public employment services and private agencies. The government, through labour laws like the Employment Act and the labour Exports guide, regulates these agencies to ensure fair and ethical recruitment practices, aiming to prevent issues like trafficking and ensure the well-being of citizens working overseas,” Musukwa said.

Written by Ministry of Labour