The University of Zambia and Allied Workers' Union Plans Expansion and Membership Growth

 University of Zambia and Allied Workers' Union (UNZAAWU), President Giancarlo Gasi says

the union aims to recruit more members from private universities and unrepresented government institutions.

Mr Gasi said however, the union faces stiff competition in it's membership drive.

He noted the union’s strategies and in overcoming the challenges. 

As Zambia approaches the 2026 elections, Mr Gasi reiterated the importance of maintaining political neutrality. 

“We support the government of the day, but I urge members to support their political parties silently without public displays,” he stated, reinforcing the union's position as a non-partisan body serving government workers.  

One of UNZAAWU’s major goals is to expand its reach. Over the past year, the union successfully integrated middle management employees at the National Museum Board and the Tropical Diseases Research Centre (TDRC).

 This includes professionals such as doctors and managers who were previously not unionised.  

“At Mulungushi University, we were late as the Copperbelt University union had already recruited members,” Mr Gasi acknowledged.  

In terms of bargaining for improved benefits, Mr Gasi emphasised the union’s reliance on supplementary grants to secure salary increments.

 “These are grant-aided institutions. If government grants are insufficient, we push for supplementary grants to ensure our members are taken care of,” he said.  

When asked about his confidence in the union’s team, Mr Gasi expressed optimism. 

“Elections are challenging, and not everyone can be part of the leadership team, but I am excited about the members’ choices and confident we will deliver.”  

As UNZAAWU continues its journey, its focus on growth, member welfare, and strategic planning highlights its commitment to representing and supporting its diverse membership.

The newly elected office bearers for the University of Zambia and Allied Workers Union are President Giancapio Gasi, Vice President Tom Simukoko, 

General Secretary Moonga Mupuna, Deputy General Secretary (finance)

 Richard Hanguwa,  Deputy secretary general (administration) Moonde Mungandu  and National Trustees Siishi Kamenda, Lucy Phiri, Kaumba Chinyama, and Makala Chikumba.