Mozambique Approves New Regulations for Domestic Worker Protections

New regulations strengthening labour protections for domestic workers, including a minimum wage, were approved in Mozambique by the Council of Ministers via Decree No. 52/2026 on an unspecified date in 2026. These significant measures introduce several key guarantees aimed at formalising and improving the working conditions for this often vulnerable segment of the workforce. Specifically, the decree mandates written employment contracts, compulsory registration with the Social Security system, a minimum of 30 days of paid annual leave, and enhanced protections against harassment in the workplace. This represents a substantial legislative effort to align domestic work with broader labour standards within the country.

This development carries considerable legal significance for both employers and domestic workers in Mozambique. For employers, particularly households, it necessitates a comprehensive review of existing employment arrangements to ensure compliance with the new formal requirements, which will likely include increased administrative burdens and potentially higher labour costs due to the introduction of a minimum wage, social security contributions, and paid leave entitlements. For domestic workers, the decree offers a much-needed framework for legal recognition, improved working conditions, and access to social protection benefits previously unavailable or inconsistently applied. It also provides clearer avenues for recourse in cases of harassment or contractual disputes, thereby empowering workers and reducing their vulnerability.

In terms of legal context, Decree No. 52/2026, issued by the Council of Ministers, signifies executive action to regulate a specific sector of the labour market. This decree likely operates within, and potentially amends or supplements, Mozambique's overarching Labour Law framework, which governs general employment relations. The introduction of a minimum wage for domestic workers also connects these regulations to the national wage-setting mechanisms and policies aimed at ensuring fair remuneration across different sectors. Furthermore, such reforms often reflect an alignment with international labour standards, such as those promoted by the International Labour Organization (ILO), which advocate for decent work for domestic workers globally.

The key parties involved in this regulatory change include the Council of Ministers as the legislative body responsible for approving the decree. The primary beneficiaries are domestic workers across Mozambique, who will now enjoy enhanced legal rights and protections. Conversely, employers of domestic workers, whether individual households or agencies, are the main parties affected by the new compliance obligations. Enforcement of these regulations will likely fall under the purview of the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security, along with the national Social Security Institute, which will be responsible for ensuring registration and collection of contributions.

Practitioners, particularly those advising on labour law, should immediately familiarise themselves with the full text of Decree No. 52/2026 once it is publicly available. Attorneys representing employers must proactively advise clients on the necessity of formalising employment contracts, registering domestic workers with Social Security, and adjusting remuneration and leave policies to meet the new minimum standards. They should also prepare to assist clients in navigating potential disputes arising from non-compliance or interpretation of the new provisions. For lawyers representing domestic workers, this decree provides a robust new legal basis to advocate for their clients' rights, assist with contract negotiations, and pursue claims related to wages, leave, or harassment. All legal professionals should monitor for any subsequent implementing regulations, official guidelines, or clarifications that may be issued by the relevant government ministries to ensure full and accurate compliance.