In a statement, SADC Executive Secretary, Her Excellency Dr. Stergomena Lawrence Tax, said that despite that the day will be commemorated under unusual and extremely difficult circumstances due to challenges and hardships emanating from loss of jobs and livelihoods owing to the COVID-19 pandemic SADC salutes all workers.

Dr. Tax said “despite the dire circumstances, and the threat to health and safety, millions of workers across the world have continued to serve on the frontlines to ensure the provision of health services and other essential services. SADC salutes these men and women for showing remarkable resilience and exemplary commitment in the war against COVID-19.”

Chairperson for the Human Resources for Health Coalition Shouts Simenza says health workers feel humbled for the recognition appealing to health personnel in the country, to soldier on.

“We are the biggest wing that has been affected as we fight against the pandemic, we are working very hard and of course some in fear, so we request that we work in a conducive environment and have all that we need while discharging our duty” said Simenza.

The chairperson for the Human resource for health coalition urged health personnel not to get weary in the war against the pandemic.

Simenza also acknowledged all workers and efforts by the Malawi Police Service, Malawi Defense Force MDF, Immigration Department, Teachers and other stakeholders for their meaningful contribution to Malawi’s economy.

The statement by SADC Executive Secretary, Dr. StergomenaTax, has also paid special tribute to health workers that have succumbed to the disease owing to their direct exposure.

According to the SADC executive, the International Labour Organization (ILO) has so far estimated that close to 25 million jobs will be lost globally, as a result of the extreme measures, but necessary moves in containing the spread of COVID-19.

The regional body is also commending companies and organisations that have secured and maintained jobs of its workers despite other innovative means which could substitute the human labour in these turbulent times of the pandemic.