A LEGISLATOR has raised concern over the exclusion of sex workers from the Occupational Safety Bill, saying all workers deserve protection under the law.
Shamva South MP Joseph Mapiki said sex workers should be recognised in the proposed law to ensure they are protected from occupational hazards and injuries.
“We cannot leave out issues to do with sex workers; if we leave them out, I do not know, but in reality, that is happening,” he said. “We need to ensure that those workers and employers have enough protection.”
Mapiki also raised concern over foreign employers operating in the mining sector, citing cases of alleged abuse and exploitation of local workers.
He called for stricter regulations to ensure foreign employers undergo proper training so that they comply with workplace safety standards.
His remarks come amid growing concern over workplace safety in Zimbabwe, particularly in the mining sector where accidents and labour disputes have become increasingly common.
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The Occupational Safety Bill seeks to provide a framework for safeguarding the health and safety of workers across various industries.
However, Mapiki said the legislation should adopt a more comprehensive approach that protected all workers, regardless of their profession.