Cargo movement through Zambia faces a potential shutdown from December 16 as long-distance transport unions representing foreign truck drivers plan labour action against the government of President Hakainde Hichilema.
A letter addressed to the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) headquarters in Gaborone outlines the unions’ intentions to enforce a “truck stoppage,” effectively halting operations at all Zambian borders.
The dispute stems from recent measures by the Zambian government to tighten immigration controls, including stricter deportation policies. Central to the controversy is a new transport visa policy, requiring long-distance drivers to renew their permits at a cost of ZMK 15,000 (approximately $500 or over R10,000). This financial burden has rendered many drivers unable to comply.
Under the policy, only drivers holding 90-day transport visas expiring at the end of the year are eligible to apply for renewal. The unions argue this restriction unfairly targets foreign drivers, effectively forcing many out of work.
The correspondence from the unions emphasizes the financial strain caused by the new policy:
“There shall be no trucks crossing borders between Zambia and neighboring countries because we don’t have ZMK 15,000.”
The letter was signed by seven transport unions across the region:
- Professional Drivers Union of Malawi
- United Truck Drivers of South Africa
- Truck Drivers Union
- Zimbabwe Truck Drivers Trade Union
- Associação de Camionistas de Moçambique
- United Southern Africa Truckers Association
- ZIM-Namibia-Zambia Corridor Drivers
While acknowledging Zambia’s sovereign right to enforce immigration laws, the unions called for fair treatment:
“All people should be treated equally, regardless of nationality, religion, race, or tribe.”
If the planned strike proceeds, it could significantly disrupt trade across Southern Africa, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue between the Zambian government and regional stakeholders.
