By Suleman Chitera
The Domestic and Vulnerable Workers Association (DOVWA) has expressed strong dissatisfaction with a recent court ruling that denied domestic workers the opportunity to benefit from Malawi’s labour and pension laws
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The ruling, delivered on April 16, saw the court dismiss an application by domestic workers who were seeking a review of existing employment and retirement benefit laws. The workers had hoped the review would ensure their inclusion and protection under the country’s legal framework governing labour rights and pensions.
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In its determination, the panel of judges—Jack Nriva, Chimwemwe Kamowa, and Allan Muhome—concluded that DOVWA does not fall within the scope of the current labour and pension legislation. As a result, the court ruled that the association should not be part of the application.
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The decision has sparked concern among advocates for domestic workers’ rights, who argue that the exclusion leaves a significant portion of Malawi’s workforce without legal protection or access to retirement benefits.
In a statement released by the organization, DOVWA Executive Director Dominic Makawa described the ruling as disappointing and indicated that the association will challenge the decision.
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“We are not satisfied with the court’s ruling and we intend to appeal to the Supreme Court,” said Makawa, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to fighting for the rights and recognition of domestic and vulnerable workers.
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The planned appeal is expected to reignite debate over the legal status and protection of domestic workers in Malawi, a group often regarded as among the most vulnerable in the labour market.
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Labour rights activists argue that reforming employment laws to include domestic workers is critical in ensuring fair wages, job security, and access to pension benefits, aligning Malawi with international labour standards.
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As the case heads toward a potential Supreme Court review, stakeholders will be closely watching whether the judiciary will reconsider the position of domestic workers within the country’s legal and social protection systems.
