Malawi’s Labour Minister cracks down on CP Feeds over inhumane conditions

MALAWI – In a dramatic turn of events, the Malawian government has ordered the immediate closure of Central Poultry (CP) Feeds in Lilongwe’s Kanengo area following the exposure of alarming working conditions at the facility. 

Central Poultry, the largest processor and marketer of chicken, is a fully integrated broiler producer breeds and rears its livestock, feeds them from its mills, and processes, distributes, and markets fresh and frozen chicken alongside commercial eggs.

The move to shut its feed facility comes after Minister of Labour Vitumbiko Mumba conducted a surprise inspection, uncovering gross violations of labour laws and hazardous conditions that posed serious risks to workers’ health and safety.  

The inspection revealed a disturbing lack of basic safety measures. Workers were seen operating heavy machinery without gloves, helmets, or boots, while others toiled barefoot or in flimsy sandals. 

Employees in dusty rooms lacked protective masks, leaving them vulnerable to respiratory illnesses. Compounding the situation, long working hours were reported—often exceeding 11 hours a day—with workers earning minimal wages for their efforts.  

Equally troubling were the substandard hygiene and sanitation facilities. Meals were prepared in fly-infested kitchens, and the factory’s 650 employees shared limited toilets, forcing some to relieve themselves outdoors.  

Minister Mumba, visibly outraged by the findings, condemned CP Feeds’ management for its neglect and disregard for workers’ dignity. 

“This is an outright violation of labour laws and basic human rights,” Mumba stated. “The health and safety of workers are non-negotiable, and such conditions cannot be allowed to persist.”  

The minister’s decisive action included ordering an immediate halt to the factory’s operations. CP Feeds must now demonstrate full compliance with labour and health standards before it can resume activities. 

The minister also criticised the employment of expatriate labour in roles that could be filled by local workers, demanding a comprehensive report on all expatriates at the company.  

This bold intervention aligns with President Lazarus Chakwera’s commitment to improving labour standards in Malawi. 

“Exploitation and negligence have no place in this country,” Mumba asserted, emphasising that the government will enforce stricter regulations to protect vulnerable workers.  

The employees call for immediate reforms, including improved wages, shorter working hours, and access to adequate protective equipment.

While CP Feeds representatives have pledged to address the violations, the closure of the facility serves as a stark warning to other companies operating in Malawi. 

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