Mordecai
Assistant Workshop Manager
Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your role within the company?
My name is Mordecai Mposha, and I currently work as the company electrician and Assistant Workshop Manager.
How did you begin working for Tribal Textiles?
I joined Tribal Textiles in 2000, originally working as a groundsman. Over time, I also began helping with electrical work around the company.
I had always wanted to train as an electrician, so I saw it as an opportunity to learn a skill that would also add value to the company. In 2005, Tribal wanted me to become a driver, but instead of going for my driving licence, I chose to pursue electrical training.
Over the years, I also took responsibility for managing pigments and paints, a role that I have since handed over to Paul Mbewe.
How Did You Begin Working For Tribal?
How has your role changed over the years?
I have worked as the company electrician for many years, as well as running the oven used to bake our fabrics up until 2025. In 2026, I took on a new role as Assistant Workshop Manager.
I was also elected as the workers' chairperson in 2017, representing the wider team until 2024, when I handed the role over to Niven Chalaizia.
Why did you choose to work at Tribal Textiles?
In 1998, I joined ZESCO on a two-year contract. When ZESCO began restructuring, I saw an opportunity to make a change, and that was when I decided to join Tribal Textiles.
Can you tell us about someone who inspired you during your time at Tribal?
Of course, the late Moses Musa, who was our Workshop Manager. I assisted Moses with collecting stock and pigments, and we worked together from 2000 until 2021.
He was a very good man and was always good to me. He encouraged me in the work I was doing, particularly with my electrical training, and I learnt a lot from working alongside him.
What does Tribal Textiles mean to you?
Tribal is a community-based company. The people who work here come from the surrounding community. We are gardeners, farmers and people from many different backgrounds who have all had the opportunity to join Tribal Textiles.
The company has helped many people within our community over the years, giving people the opportunity to build better homes and support their families. It has made a real difference to the communities we come from.
