By SARAH MWANZA –
ZESCO acting managing director Victor Mundende has urged workers at the power utility company to apply themselves with renewed zeal and dedication in the execution of their duties.
Addressing workers during his inaugural speech at Zesco offices on Malambo Road in Lusaka on Thursday, Mr Mundende urged the employees not to work against each other but to work as a team.
He, however, said there was poor work culture and time-keeping with a lack of dedication to work by most employees.
Mr Mundende also said that some workers at the company’s head office were in the habit of shopping during working hours.
“Over the last couple of months, we have also noted with concern the lack of dedication and drive towards work by some of our employees.
This has a direct bearing on Zesco’s service delivery to its esteemed customers,” Mr Mundende said.
“In the case of workers at the head office, we have seen an increase in malingering ever since Levy Park Mall was opened, with some workers engaging in shopping activities during working hours. This has to stop.”
Mr Mundende said a confident workforce with high morale was key to increased productivity.
“In this regard, human resources (HR) are directed to ensure that the following are realised: That recognition and rewards are clearly and consistently tied to job performance and overall business results; that learning opportunities are provided for employees to excel at their current jobs but also to grow into new one; and lastly that HR programmes and policies should be consistent and fair for all employees,” he said.
Mr Mundende has also directed the human resource department to lift the general ban on overtime payment with immediate effect.
He further urged the department to step up training, especially of junior officers.