Volume 6, Number 1

Accessibility of Social Security among Domestic Workers in Lusaka, Zambia

  Authors

Nicholas Mulenga, Moonga H Mumba and Munalula Mulonda, University of Zambia, Zambia

  Abstract

Social security plays an important role in preventing and reducing poverty, inequality and social exclusion. It is critical in supporting people to be self-reliance and lead a more dignified life. People working in the formal and informal economy alike require social security, especially in times of economic crisis. In both developed and developing countries, domestic work absorbs significant number of workers, many of whom belong to the poorest segments of society. Using a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods, this study investigated the awareness and accessibility of social security among domestic workers in Lusaka, Zambia. Some employers and representatives of Zambia’s Social Security Institutions were also interviewed as key informants. The overall conclusion this study draws is that despite the importance, majority domestic workers are less informed and do not have access to social security services. They expressed interest to participate only if there is more sensitization done as well as having their income increased. The study recommends more sensitization and a more comprehensive legal framework that would compel both domestic workers and their employers to adhere to social security requirements.

  Keywords

Social security, Domestic workers, Participation, Zambia.