Govt warns employers against dismissing pregnant workers

DODOMA: DEPUTY Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Labour, Youth, Employment and Persons with Disability), Mr Patrobas Katambi, has issued a stern warning to employers against dismissing female employees on the grounds of pregnancy, saying that such actions are illegal and punishable under existing labour laws.

Mr Katambi was responding to a supplementary question in the National Assembly yesterday, from Special Seats MP Alice Kaijage (CCM), who asked what strategies the government has in place to protect female workers in both the private and informal sectors from termination due to pregnancy.

She also inquired about measures being taken to financially and technically strengthen labour inspection bodies to enforce these protections.

Mr Katambi said that pregnant and breastfeeding women are legally protected, including rights to maternity leave, breastfeeding breaks and special consideration in cases of premature delivery.

“If any employer terminates a female worker due to pregnancy, it is a clear violation of the law and legal action will be taken,” he said.

“Any woman who suspects her dismissal is related to pregnancy is encouraged to report the matter to the regional labour officer for appropriate action.”

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He further noted that the government has continued to implement various measures to safeguard workers’ rights, especially those of women, including recent amendments to labour laws passed by Parliament in February 2025.

“These amendments have strengthened maternity leave provisions, particularly for women who deliver prematurely,” Mr Katambi said.

He added that the government has issued guidelines to employers on developing workplace policies aimed at eliminating discrimination.

Labour inspections have also been intensified to detect violations and take corrective action where necessary.

“We are also offering continuous education to workers so they understand their rights, including the right to file claims with the Commission for Mediation and Arbitration (CMA) if they are unlawfully dismissed,” he explained.

Mr Katambi urged lawmakers and relevant stakeholders to collaborate with the government in raising awareness among women, especially those in the private and informal sectors, about their labour rights and the legal channels available for redress.

“It is through such awareness that we can ensure women are both protected and empowered to claim their rights in the workplace,” he concluded.