Adhere to laws and regulations - Business owners urged

LUSAKA Province Permanent Secretary, Robert Kamalata has called on business owners to strictly adhere to the country’s laws and regulations.

Mr Kamalata indicated that it is important for business owners to follow the stipulated laws and regulations when conducting their businesses.

He was speaking when he officiated at the official opening of the 21st UNO Energies Service station in Lusaka’s Makeni area.

Mr Kamalata said the Government remains committed to embracing and collaborating with the private sector for the benefit of all Zambians.

“Lusaka is a good place to invest but while we appreciate your investments, ensure that you are law-abiding businesses, pay your taxes and show concern for the environments in which you are operating from,” he said.

Mr Kamalata disclosed that he had inquired about the operations of the company before officiating at the event and was impressed with the report.

He further called on the business community to execute corporate social responsibility in the communities where they operate from.

Mr Kamalata further directed the Lusaka City Council to ensure that it continues to monitor the businesses so that they comply with the local authority regulations.

And Lusaka City Council Chief Buildings Inspector, Smart Simukoko said the local authority will continue to ensure that businesses adhere to the public safety regulations.

Mr Simukoko commended UNO for having met all the requirements before opening the service station and urged other businesses to emulate the company.

“Unlike some other service stations, we have had a very good relationship working with UNO and we are happy that they have maintained the standards,” he said.

And UNO Business Head, Rohit Gharmalkar said the company places high priority on the safety of both employees and customers.

Mr Gharmalkar said it is the desire of the company to work in harmony with government and be a valuable organisation to the country.

He disclosed that the company has been in operation since 2019 and has been adhering to all the regulations of the country.

“We are grateful to the government for the support so far and like always we will continue to pay our taxes because we believe when the country is better, we will also grow as a business,” he said.

Meanwhile, area Ward Councilor, Evans Kaliko said the development represents economic growth through job creation for the youths in the area.

Mr Kaliko said the development is testament of what can be achieved when the government collaborates with the private sector.

Zamfuel Petroleum Ltd which trades as UNO Energies has been operating in Zambia since 2019 and has employed over 250 locals in its 21 service stations across the country.