The Challenges Facing Zambia’s Aging Workforce
Aging Zambia faces unique challenges in the workforce, with many older individuals struggling to access employment opportunities despite their right to work and contribute.
In aging Zambia, older individuals have the right to work and earn a living, just like anyone else. However, despite efforts by the government to support lifelong learning and improve the well-being of older people, many still face significant barriers to employment, especially those aged 65 and above. According to the Zambia Statistics Agency’s 2022 poverty assessment, households led by individuals in this age group have the highest poverty incidence, reaching a staggering 64.8%.
Barriers to Employment in Zambia
A recent study by HelpAge International and the Zambian Centre for Poverty Reduction and Research highlighted seven main barriers preventing older Zambians from entering both the formal and informal job markets:
- Attitudinal Barriers: Negative societal views about older individuals, particularly those with disabilities, limit their participation in economic activities. One community member noted, “The leaders in the community do not see disabled people as being able to participate in economic activities.”
- Infrastructure Challenges: Many older people struggle with inadequate access to trading spaces and public facilities, which makes working more difficult.
- Financial Barriers: Access to capital is a major obstacle. Without the ability to obtain loans or start-up funds, older people find it hard to launch or expand businesses.
- Institutional Barriers: Policies and systems often exclude older people from economic programs, leaving them with fewer opportunities to work.
- Educational Barriers: Limited access to training and skill-building opportunities means that many older individuals miss out on essential tools to improve their employability.
- Technological Barriers: The growing dependence on technology in the workforce means that older people, who may not be familiar with new tech, are at a disadvantage.
- Social Protection Gaps: Many older Zambians lack sufficient social safety nets, such as pensions, leaving them vulnerable and at-risk.
Overcoming Barriers for Zambia
To address these challenges and help the aging Zambia population thrive in the workforce, the following solutions have been recommended:
- Develop a National Policy Framework: The Zambian government needs to create policies specifically targeting older people, women, and people with disabilities to ensure their inclusion in the workforce.
- Introduce a Universal Pension: A national pension system would provide a steady income for older people, empowering them to engage in economic activities without relying solely on family or charity.
- Financial Support for Entrepreneurs: Establishing a financial support fund for older entrepreneurs would help them access capital and start their own businesses, promoting self-reliance.
- Improve Support for Farmers: Providing older farmers with the necessary tools and inputs can enhance their productivity and livelihoods.
- Build Accessible Trading Spaces: Local governments, NGOs, and development partners can create trading spaces that meet the needs of older people, including amenities like rest areas, water, and sanitation.
- Create Specialized Job Roles: Older people have valuable experience and knowledge. By establishing roles in counseling, conflict resolution, and community leadership, older Zambians can contribute meaningfully to society.
- Encourage Mixed-Age Workplaces: Encouraging the development of private organizations that employ both younger and older workers can foster a more inclusive workforce.
By addressing these barriers with coordinated efforts from the government, employers, and civil society, Zambia can create a workforce where older people are respected, included, and empowered to live dignified lives. This approach not only improves the quality of life for older individuals but also strengthens the nation as a whole.
