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Mberengwa residents voiced their discontent with Kuvimba Mining House’s failure to prioritise their needs and concerns. They expressed these concerns following an interview on ZiFM radio, hosted by Farai Mwakutuya, with Member of Parliament for Mberengwa West, Tafanana Zhou, on November 22nd, 2023. The interview centred around the lithium mining activities of Kuvimba Mining House at Sandawana Mine, situated along the Great Dyke.
The interview discussed various aspects related to the mining activities of Kuvimba House at Sandawana Mine and the development of the Mberengwa district. Key points included the relocation of Sandawana Primary School, road rehabilitation, engagement with the local community, employment opportunities, skill development, infrastructure improvements, environmental concerns, and the sponsorship of Chiefs’ courts and a hospital. Here are some of the important points discussed during the interview:
<blockquote>
1. Sandawana Primary School will be relocated from its current location. 
2. A road stretching about 10 kilometres from Sandawana to Zverenje is being rehabilitated to connect Mberengwa and West Nicholson. 
3. Kuvimba House has engaged with the local community through their leaders, particularly the Chiefs, to ensure benefits reach the general population. 
4. Tafanana Zhou called for the rehabilitation of roads in Mberengwa district and wants Kuvimba House to pave the roads. 
5. Sandawana Mine has employed approximately 1,000 local people since its reopening, with around 20% of employees being women. 
6. Local businesses are benefiting from the mining activities by supplying goods and services to the mine. 
7. Kuvimba House plans to build 16 Chiefs’ courts and is sponsoring the construction of a hospital. 
9. Tafanana Zhou expressed confidence in Kuvimba House’s efforts to mitigate environmental degradation. 
10. Local residents are suggesting the establishment of a plant for beneficiation in Mberengwa. 
11. Ordinary people in the area desire improvements such as better road infrastructure, hospitals, on-the-job training, and the construction of the Jeka Bridge. 
12. Tafanana Zhou said they won’t pressure Kuvimba into reconstructing the Jeka (Tandavarai) Bridge.
</blockquote>
Responding to the interview, residents expressed concern about the prioritisation of benefits for chiefs over community development projects. They argue that funds should be invested in initiatives like clinics, schools, infrastructure, and attracting further investment, rather than solely benefiting local chiefs. Said one resident:
<blockquote>
There isn’t anything for people with high academic qualifications from the locals which means little trickles into the communities by way of salaries. Secondly, the idea of overdoing things for chiefs in my view isn’t of any benefit to the suffering people. Chiefs already have hefty perks for doing nothing to the extent of being awarded all-terrain vehicles when police stations and clinics have nothing. Focusing on chiefs in my view is populist and counterproductive. Kuvimba should embark on more meaningful CRS such as perhaps equipping our clinics, and schools, ensuring communities have clean running water, rehabilitation of bridges dip tanks, tarring of roads and constructing a dormitory mini town to serve as a nucleus to attract further investment into the area. District administrators’ offices should be funded to decentralise and have a satellite station there so that our people begin to see development. 
</blockquote>
The residents also raised concerns about the lack of accountability and transparency in agreements and plans between Kuvimba and the chiefs. They question the absence of concrete timelines and information regarding the mining company’s investment in the community. Dr Takavafira Zhou, the President of the Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ), said:
<blockquote>
There are certainly fundamental weaknesses in the submission by Mp Tafanana Zhou in the ZiFM radio interview.  There is virtually no timeframe for rebuilding and relocation of Sandawana Primary Schools by Kuvimba and the MP sees nothing wrong with that.
There is no timeframe for building a hospital and the MP sees nothing wrong with that.
Chiefs met Kuvimba representatives in Zvishavane but there was nothing concrete agreed upon except verbal promises, and the MP sees nothing wrong with that. Building 16 chiefs’ courts is certainly not a priority for the majority of the people of Mberengwa wallowing in poverty and misery, a consequence of natural resource plunder from Mberengwa during the colonial period and in independent Zimbabwe.
Assuming Kuvimba has employed 1000 locals which is doubtful, has the MP considered the number of workers the Co has? To date, Kuvimba has more than 5000 workers, and 1000 is insignificant. Kuvimba is also well known for its slave wages to general labourers.
Is the MP aware that the construction of a railway line from Mberengwa to Mozambique is at an advanced stage in order to enhance the looting of Lithium by Kuvimba?
</blockquote>
Residents also expressed frustration with the lack of infrastructure development in Mberengwa. They complain about the poor state of roads, bridges, and other infrastructure, and accuse the mining company of neglecting its responsibility to repair and maintain these facilities. Dr Takavafira Zhou added:
<blockquote>
Kuvimba destroyed the Sandawana-Chegato-Mabika-Yorks Road; the Sandawana-Danga-Yorks Road; Sandawana-Mataga road and is now running away from the responsibility of repairing the low-lying bridges, and tarring the roads and now prefers to go through Zverenje and the MP sees nothing wrong with that.
Today Kuvimba has plundered more than 2.5 million tonnes of Lithium from Sandawana and there is virtually nothing to show for this to the people of Mberengwa.
</blockquote>
Residents compare the lack of community development in Mberengwa to other mining areas where mines have invested in schools, clinics, and infrastructure projects. Said another resident:
<blockquote>
Other communities where there are mines have benefited a lot. Check communities around Mimosa Mine, Zimplats, and Unki. Here in Mberengwa mines don’t even bother to construct proper roads for accessing their mines. We will definitely benefit from those roads as well. Mimosa has built a lot of schools, and clinics, and upgraded the Zvishavane District Hospital to a better standard. If the same can happen in Mberengwa we will be grateful. Just schools and hospitals would be a bare minimum. Or at least adding ma block pazvikoro (at schools) or textbooks, computers and stationery.
</blockquote>
Another resident said:
<blockquote>
Mberengwa is always open to looting. Where are Inyala Mine, Rhonda Mine even the Original Sandawana Mine?
</blockquote>
Residents also called for better representation and understanding of their community’s needs from leaders. They criticised current leaders for prioritising their own interests and called for leaders who prioritise sustainable development and have a better understanding of the community’s needs. Said a resident named Martin:
<blockquote>
It’s tragic. Our leaders, political and traditional, put themselves ahead of the people. There can be no better illustration. Chief should have identified more needy people from within their communities instead. But l guess that’s the African way. Mukuru ndiye anotanga kunhonga nyama.
</blockquote>
There is also criticism of the Member of Parliament for not actively engaging with the local populace and adequately representing their interests. Fumed one resident:
<blockquote>
The legislator needs a lot of help from Lithium Community Group. Let Public Relations or a spokesman/person talk for the mine. Kwete kuti Jeka Bridge rino divider attention ye Kuvimba House. The Legislator does not know the depth of the Mining House’s purse. Yes, the Mining Giant may have their own plans but there is nothing wrong in asking them to look Eastwards. As they have embarked on this huge mining venture they may receive big heavy mining equipment by railway via Ngungumbane who knows.
Jeka Bridge has stood unattended for far far too long. It’s now a nasty eye sore. Zvinotonyadzisa kuti (it’s embarrassing) how many MPs have come and gone vachisiya rakadaro (leaving the bridge in its poor state).
</blockquote>
The Jeka/Tandavarai Bridge, located on the Mwenezi River, was swept away by floods in 2017 when the Chimwe Dam walls were breached. As a result, villagers from both sides were unable to cross the river for nearly two months due to the ongoing flooding. Although attempts were made to restore the bridge, it is now described as a makeshift structure. Additionally, there are allegations that the funds allocated for the bridge’s rehabilitation were misappropriated.
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-199820" class="wp-caption aligncenter" id="attachment_199820" style="width: 510px"><img alt="MBERENGWA JEKA BRIDGE BEFORE IT WAS SWEPT" class="wp-image-199820" decoding="async" height="466" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 510px) 100vw, 510px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/MBERENGWA-JEKA-BRIDGE-BEFORE-IT-WAS-SWEPT-300x274.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/MBERENGWA-JEKA-BRIDGE-BEFORE-IT-WAS-SWEPT-300x274.jpg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/MBERENGWA-JEKA-BRIDGE-BEFORE-IT-WAS-SWEPT-768x701.jpg 768w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/MBERENGWA-JEKA-BRIDGE-BEFORE-IT-WAS-SWEPT.jpg 810w" width="510"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-199820">Jeka Bridge before the 2017 floods</figcaption></figure> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-267011" class="wp-caption aligncenter" id="attachment_267011" style="width: 475px"><img alt="" class="wp-image-267011" decoding="async" height="339" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 475px) 100vw, 475px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Jeka-Bridge-mberengwa-300x214.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Jeka-Bridge-mberengwa-300x214.jpg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Jeka-Bridge-mberengwa.jpg 700w" width="475"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-267011">Jeka Bridge after it was swept away by Cyclone Dineo-induced floods in Mberengwa. – Pictures by Believe Nyakudjara</figcaption></figure> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-199812" class="wp-caption aligncenter" id="attachment_199812" style="width: 299px"><img alt="Jeka tandavarai bridge" class="wp-image-199812" decoding="async" height="399" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 299px) 100vw, 299px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/WhatsApp-Image-2021-03-21-at-09.50.25-225x300.jpeg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/WhatsApp-Image-2021-03-21-at-09.50.25-225x300.jpeg 225w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/WhatsApp-Image-2021-03-21-at-09.50.25.jpeg 612w" width="299"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-199812">Makeshift Jeka Bridge</figcaption></figure>
 
Mberengwa residents made the following recommendations:
1. Provide scholarships or sponsorships for individuals with high academic qualifications from the local community to pursue tertiary education in programs that will benefit the community. 
2. Introduce a book fund to provide reading materials at schools. 
3. Establish a vocational training centre for local artisans. 
4. Fast-track the upgrading of referral hospitals to benefit the entire district. 
5. Encourage other stakeholders to contribute to the development of the Mberengwa district. 
6. Pledge a certain percentage of revenue for community development projects through the chiefs. 
7. Conduct environmental impact assessments and promote local processing of lithium. 
8. Repair and maintain infrastructure in Mberengwa. 
9. Ensure fair representation and understanding of community needs by leaders. 
10. Improve accountability and transparency in agreements and plans between Kuvimba and the community. 
11. Create job opportunities and provide fair wages for local workers. 
12. Invest in community development projects like schools, clinics, and infrastructure. 
13. Engage with the community (not local leadership but the common man), represent their interests, and prioritize sustainable development. 
14. Share community dividends from the resources accruing in Mberengwa. 
15. Address the environmental impact and health concerns caused by mining activities. 
16. Prioritize community development over benefits for chiefs. 
19. Provide ambulances and upgrade hospitals for the general population. 
20. Ensure equal development and investment in Mberengwa as in other mining areas.
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Pindula News

Mberengwa Residents Not Happy With Lithium Miner Kuvimha House, MP Tafanana Zhou

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Takavafira_Zhou/">Dr. Takavafira M. Zhou</a>, the President of the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Progressive_Teachers_Union_of_Zimbabwe/">Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ),</a> has criticised the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) for its “incompetence” and “deliberate” removal of voters from the voters’ roll.
In a statement seen by Pindula News, Zhou who is also a member of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) expressed concern that a considerable number of Zimbabweans had been disenfranchised due to ZEC’s actions. He said although these individuals attempted to be returned to the voters’ roll, their efforts were unsuccessful in most parts of the country, such as Mutare, Masvingo, Zvishavane, and Mberengwa, as the district offices claimed that the network was down since 28 May 2023.
Zhou said many disenfranchised citizens were unable to inspect the voters’ roll, rendering the exercise futile. Dr. Zhou questioned how individuals who voted in 2018 and the 2022 by-elections could suddenly disappear from the voters’ roll, unless it was a deliberate act by ZEC for political expediency. He said:
<blockquote>
Zec’s incompetence baffling. 
A considerable number of Zimbabweans have been disenfranchised by Zec by deliberately being removed from the voters’ roll. Sadly, attempts by such people to be returned to the voters’ roll were futile as District offices in most parts such as Mutare, Masvingo, Zvishavane and Mberengwa claimed network was down since 28 May 2023. So the inspection of the voters’ roll was of no consequence to many disenfranchised citizens. One wonders how someone who voted in 2018, let alone by-elections in 2022, could suddenly disappear from the voters’ roll unless it is by design and political expediency by Zec.
</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/06/01/voters-roll-zec-says-not-targetting-opposition-members-for-removal/">ZEC denied allegations of deliberately removing opposition members’ names from the voters’ roll.</a> ZEC vice-chairperson Rodney Kiwa recently stated that the electoral body is independent and not affiliated with any political party. He said the purpose of the voters’ roll inspection is to ensure accurate registration and corrections, regardless of political affiliation.
Kiwa added that more people are using the USSD platform *265# to check the voters’ roll than physically checking in person. The inspection exercise, which began on Saturday last week, was extended to 1 June 2023. Some registered voters, including opposition members of parliament, claim that their names are missing from the voters’ roll.
More Pindula News

PTUZ President Criticises ZEC For Removing Voters From Voters' Roll

The Public Service Commission has announced a new pay structure for civil servants noting that they will be paid according to their academic qualifications, experience and seniority starting this month.
The government is apparently reactivating a policy that promotes the advancement of public workers which was abandoned in 2012.
The advancement policy will start to be operational this month, <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/new-pay-structure-for-civil-servants/">The Sunday News</a> reported citing a statement issued on Friday, by Public Service Commission (PSC) Secretary Dr Tsitsi Choruma. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
Following engagements in the context of the National Joint Negotiating Council, Government resolved to reactivate the advancement of all civil servants in terms of the applicable advancement procedures. Accordingly, the Public Service Commission embarked on and finalised the placement of all civil servants in their respective grades by the end of December 2022. All civil servants will, therefore, be paid the salaries that reflect their advancement and placement within their grades with effect from January 2023.
In pursuit of the foregoing, all the Heads of Line Ministries are implored to submit all relevant higher qualifications obtained by civil servants under their ministries and departments to the Public Service Commission to facilitate the completion of the advancement exercise by 31st March 2023.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Teachers Association (Zimta) president Mr Richard Gundani said the exercise is an issue of fundamental rights enshrined in the conditions of service.
Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) president Dr Takavafira Zhou said the review of grades would see civil servants getting what they deserved. He said:
<blockquote>
If one is a headmaster, deputy or senior teacher, one should have something to show for that. What we only urge the Government is to walk the talk. 
</blockquote>
He said that while the intention is good, they usually disagree with the government on the implementation plan. He said the new police must be clear among the stakeholders.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Public Service Commission Announces New Pay Structure For Civil Servants

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/TeachersforED">Teachers for ED (Economic Development)</a>, has urged the government to enter into a bilateral agreement with the United Kingdom government to protect teachers from possible human trafficking.
The UK government had listed Zimbabwean teachers as eligible for a qualified teacher status (QTS) in that country with effect from February 1 next year.
But in a statement seen by <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200005405/protect-teachers-moving-overseas">NewsDay</a>, Teachers for ED, a shadowy group formed to prop up President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s 2023 electoral campaign, believes human trafficking is a possibility. The group said:
<blockquote>
Regarding this new development, Trs4ED is of the view that government needs to intervene so that those teachers willing to take up the offer are protected from the jaws of human traffickers, incidents of irregular migration and being ripped off by the so-called visa sponsors.
In this regard, Trs4ED is set to engage with the government of Zimbabwe; particularly the Primary and Secondary Education ministry (MoPSE) and Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare ministry to ensure that a system is developed that protects our teachers from trafficking, human smuggling, human organs trafficking among other transnational crimes.
The group called for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) or some form of a bilateral agreement between the government of Zimbabwe and the UK so that ‘our teachers are protected, respected and the profession remains dignified.
Our view is to push for a similar agreement between Rwanda and Zimbabwe that saw teachers working in Rwanda. Lastly, Trs4ED can be represented in the diaspora where economic development projects are implemented back in our motherland.
</blockquote>
Educators Union of Zimbabwe President Tafadzwa Munodawafa said this was a ploy to restrict teachers from working in the UK.
Munodawafa said the government should not introduce stringent measures to deter those who want to leave the country to seek greener pastures.
Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (Artuz) president Obert Masaraure said the government should pay a competitive salary to prevent teacher mass exodus.
Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (Ptuz) president Takavafira Zhou said the government needs to ensure that teachers are motivated as the employment of teachers by neighbouring countries and the UK might end up compromising the quality of education in the country.
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Teachers4ED Says UK And Zimbabwe Should Have An Agreement To Protect Teachers

Teachers’ representatives have expressed displeasure over the delay by the government to pay school fees for their children.
In April this year, the government announced that it would pay school fees for teachers’ children to cushion them from the high cost of living but the pledge has not yet been fulfilled.
Teachers’ unions told NewsDay yesterday that they were surprised by the new terms and conditions introduced by the government with regard to the payment of fees.
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Progressive_Teachers_Union_of_Zimbabwe">Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe</a> president <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Takavafira_Zhou">Takavafira Zhou</a> said: 
<blockquote>
The government is now changing goalposts. Initially, they claimed they would pay directly to the schools and teachers rushed and got invoices from the respective schools where their children are learning. They posted them to their respective provinces. They announced changes in the procedure more than four times, and now government is claiming that it has no capacity to pay the fees through schools. They are saying they will pay through the Salary Service Bureau (SSB).
</blockquote>

<ul>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/05/20/govt-releases-zwl2-68-billion-for-teachers-children-fees/">Govt Releases ZWL$2.68 Billion For Teachers’ Children Fees</a></li>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/09/02/government-moves-to-waiver-fees-for-teachers-children/">Government Moves To Waiver Fees For Teachers’ Children</a></li>
</ul>
Zhou said teachers had been ordered to redo the paperwork and the money will come next year.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe Teachers Association of Zimbabwe secretary-general Goodwill Taderera said the payment of school fees for teachers directly into their accounts through SSB was what the National Joint Negotiating Council agreed on. Taderera said:
<blockquote>
This was a proposal by the workers where we said rather than putting money into the school account, why not put money into the teacher’s account? In our view, it is the best way to go as it is fees payment and has nothing to do with the employer.
</blockquote>
Public Service Commission secretary Simon Masanga echoed Taderera’s remarks adding that it was agreed that the money will be paid in December. 
Teachers, like the rest of the civil service, have in the past two years embarked on periodic strikes demanding restoration of their pre-October 2018 salaries which were around US$450.
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Teachers Complain Over Govt's Delay To Pay School Fees For Their Children

The president of the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Progressive_Teachers_Union_of_Zimbabwe">Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ)</a>, Dr <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Takavafira_Zhou">Takavafira Zhou</a> has dismissed the government’s announcement of intentions to make education free by 2023 as mere political rhetoric. In a statement seen by Pindula News, Zhou said the number of learners enrolling for education will make it impossible for the government to implement the policy. He said:
<blockquote>
<h2>Free Education from 2023: Mere Political Rhetoric</h2>
11 July 2022
This epistle is a product of historical analysis, coloured by educational taxonomy and must never be associated with any organisation or political party. It is informed by nothing other than the truth and a desire to build a credible system of quality public education that can enhance sustainable development in Zimbabwe. President Mnangagwa has recently made a public declaration that the govt will provide free basic education with effect from 2023, in line with the constitutional (2013) dictates and the National Vision. This has been regurgitated by the public media and political players without any rigorous analysis of the implications thereto. The Sunday Mail (10 Julyv2022) peddled what it called ‘Free Education Roll-Out for Next Year (2023).’
Fundamentally, there are 4 642 028 pupils enrolled in 10 147 schools (7081 primary and 7f3066 secondary) nationally. There are three categories of schools according to grant type classification as determined by the per capita grant allocation to schools by the govt, namely:
P1 and S1 schools: include schools in low-density areas and some elite boarding schools regardless of location; 
P2 and S2 schools: these are schools in urban high-density areas, including govt schools, church-based boarding schools located in rural areas; and
P3 and S3 schools: These are rural schools.
Over the past four years, pupil enrolments have increased by 2% each year across the board. Consequently, total enrolments for primary schools are expected to increase from 3 594 884 in 2022 to 3 665 782 in 2023, while enrolments in secondary schools would increase from 1 109 385 in 2022 to 1 131 573 in 2023.
Evidence-based analysis has shown that each primary and secondary school pupil need US$30.00 and US$50.00 per term, respectively for schools to function efficiently, effectively, and provide inclusive, equitable and quality education. As such, nationally, govt would need a total of US$10 9973 460 per term for primary school pupils, and US$56 578 650 for secondary school pupils. The total demand per term in 2023 would be US$166 552110 if every pupil gets a free basic education.
One does not need to be a rocket scientist to realise the impossibility of govt meeting this feat, more so given the Second Republic’s pursuit of neo-liberal policies. Arguably, the call for free education is nothing more than political banter and homiletic bellicose. We have heard this political expediency before (in 2018) and nothing materialised after the elections.
This is not to say free education cannot be realised in Zimbabwe, but only to say you cannot solve a problem with the same type of intelligence that has produced the problem. There is, therefore, need for a total paradigm shift from the current poverty of leadership, and announcing reforms at the spar of a moment without proper planning and consultations with professionals in a relevant area is empty and blind. In its present form, the declaration for free education is nothing more than a tissue of misrepresentation or pulling cotton on the public eye in order to attract votes for the ruling party, Zanu pf in 2023 elections. There is no evidence that there has been any educational and financial taxonomy that informed the President’s declaration. The President lacks appropriate advice and his ill-conceived declaration has everything to do with 2023 elections, and therefore has no traction.
It is indeed imperative that access to inclusive, equitable and quality public education must reach underserved and disadvantaged communities. Govt must move to treat education as a right to its citizens and not a preserve of the rich. Yet sound as this may, the truth remains that the parasitic and predatory militarised elites that run the country aided by a bureaucratic bourgeoise who raid and empty state coffers under neo-liberalism will not be able to make basic education free for everyone in 2023 or anytime thereafter if they remain in power. There is a need for a paradigm shift from their neo-liberalism and current cold and calculated educational vandalism. There is need to address high-profile corruption that has become routine rather than episodic, let alone engage in win-win investments, and process of raw materials locally, rekitting our ailing industries so that we have a balance between import and export. Patronage, clientelism, cronyism and lackeyism are also a liability. It is only through responsible leadership, tapping and harnessing of our human and natural resources, and appropriate economic and financial policies that Zimbabwe can generate enough revenue to support free education. Without such an enabling environment free education will remain a mirage.
Venceremos
Dr Takavafira M. Zhou, PTUZ President
</blockquote>
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Free Education From 2023: Mere Political Rhetoric - PTUZ

The Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) has said school heads were ordered to report on teachers who failed to report for work from the 7th of February when schools resumed to the 22nd. The government previously announced that workers who did not report for work will not get salaries. In a statement, seen by Pindula News, PTUZ president Takavafira Zhou urged teachers to request written communique from their school heads instead of verbal communication. We present the statement below:
<blockquote>
Teachers Be Guided Accordingly
2 March 2022
It has come to our knowledge that following a meeting between Head Office and DSIs yesterday, DSIs were hard-pressed to charge all school heads and teachers who were incapacitated from the 7th to the 22nd. And also to report on teachers who failed to report for work by the 22nd. DSIs were ordered to elicit the co-operation of school heads to charge teachers, after which they will deal with school heads. The Ministry’s assumption is that teachers were not incapacitated but absented themselves unnecessarily. DSIs have therefore descended on school heads, some of whom have now joined the bandwagon of trying to punish incapacitated teachers by ordering teachers to write letters to explain where they were between the 7th and 22nd of February 2022.
Teachers must be warned against taking illegal instructions from their school heads. Verbal communication in Public Service are responded to verbally. We urge teachers to request for written communiques from their school heads instead of responding to verbal communication. If one gets such a written communique he/she must note that you have 14 working days before you can respond to the written communique. Use the 14 days to get advice from the Union on how best to respond.
We also want to advise some overzealous school heads that it is dangerous to try to use the unlawful requests from DSIs for witch-hunting and settling scores with teachers at their respective schools. The best school heads should do is to allow the employer to carry the unlawful exercise on her own. We also wonder why even the head office is preoccupied with a non-issue to them. They must allow teachers to engage their employer in terms of the laws of the land. Incapacitation is real. As a Union, we notified PSC about the incapacitation of teachers and PSC never bothered to respond to our communique. It is clear that PSC understands that teachers are incapacitated but the line Ministry is bitter at the incapacitation of teachers, when ordinarily the line Ministry must be amplifying teachers’ incapacitation to the employer, Cabinet, etc in order to bring normalcy to the education system.
We urge all our members and non-members to trade very carefully over the verbal requests from their school heads. We also encourage school heads to act responsibly and not suicidal, and never try to use the confusion from head office and DSIs to punish teachers. The best school heads should do is never to submit any name but advice the DSIs to get names of all teachers from the pay sheets if they so wish.
Teachers must realise that we are dealing with an arrogant line Ministry. We encourage teachers to remobilise for any possible action soon. We cannot allow the triumph of evil and stifling of labour rights in the profession 42 years after independence. Patriotic teachers must unite to defend the profession that has fallen from grace to grace with monotonous regularity. No amount of threat and brutality can silence incapacitated teachers.
Venceremos
Dr Takavafira M. Zhou, PTUZ President
</blockquote>
<h2>More: Pindula News</h2>

PTUZ: School Heads Commanded To "Punish Incapacitated Teachers"

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_School_Examinations_Council">Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP)</a> has deployed a team of heavily armed riot police officers at the Midlands State University (MSU) to keep a close eye on disgruntled examiners marking <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_School_Examinations_Council">Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council (ZIMSEC)</a> Ordinary Level scripts after they protested over allowances earlier this week.
One examiner has since been arrested and seven have been chased away.  
  
Sources said the cops, with AK47 rifles, batons and tear smoke equipment, have set up a 24hr camp on the premises and often make periodic bursts into the marking rooms to threaten the examiners, whom they refer to as sellouts.
The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Progressive_Teachers_Union_of_Zimbabwe">Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ)</a>, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Amalgamated_Rural_Teachers_Union_of_Zimbabwe">Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ)</a> and sources within the university confirmed the development.
PTUZ president Takavafira Zhou said the move could, however, backfire as examiners may decide to sabotage ZIMSEC because of the manner in which they have been treated. He told NewZimbabwe.com:
<blockquote>
Anti-riot officers are now camped there, they are forcing examiners to work and that will definitely impact the quality of results.
Examiners are obviously under a lot of stress and having officers to fear will further compound their problems.
</blockquote>
The examiners, some of them elderly, were Tuesday reportedly rounded up after deciding to join striking teachers in the middle of their marking schedule.
They cited incapacitation and failure by ZIMSEC to pay them allowances meant for their upkeep in Gweru.
Seven of the examiners are said to have been dismissed after being identified as ring leaders.
According to a source privy to developments, the examiners were even denied meal tickets as a form of punishment for their behaviour.
ZIMSEC promised examiners a US$25 daily allowance for those staying off-campus and US$12 for those on campus but instead paid ZW$9 000 upon arrival to sustain them for 26 to 28 days.
The amount paid translated to about US$2.50 per day.
ZIMSEC spokesperson Nicholette Dlamini said “there are no strikes that have been reported, everyone is at work. I am not aware of anyone who has stopped marking. We have sufficient markers at all our centres and they are currently marking.” 
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/o-level-exams-now-being-marked-at-gunpoint/">NewZimbabwe.com</a><a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/o-level-exams-now-being-marked-at-gunpoint/"> </a>

Riot Police Deployed To Monitor Teachers Marking ZIMSEC O' Level Exams

The President of the Progressive Teachers Union (PTUZ), Dr Takavafira Zhou has said teachers’ struggle has never been about a salary increase but the restoration of the purchasing power parity of teachers’ salaries pegged at US$540.
Thursday marked the 4th day since the schools reopened on Monday but scores of teachers did not report for duty saying they are incapacitated and the government has suspended them without pay for three months. Speaking on teachers’ industrial action, Zhou said:
<blockquote>
We have never embarked on grandstanding asking for US$670 that has no locus standi but US$540 that has a legal backing as we were earning this salary until 2018.
If the economic situation has improved under the Second Republic in comparison to the First Republic as we are made to understand, we fail to comprehend why this can not also reflect in terms of teachers’ salaries. At any rate, even if the economy has not improved that would not justify the unilateral reduction of our salary that remains a monumental labour injustice. Teachers would not mind where the government would get money. All they want is fair labour practice.
</blockquote>
He said teachers asked for loans to buy houses and for land to build their build own houses but they are not sure if they will get that.
Zhou added that the government’s acceptance for exemption of fees payment for three children of a teacher in any school where teachers are paid by the government is a step in the right direction, but “the quantum (US$20000) the government is prepared to give per term… cannot afford a teacher’s child the best education in Zimbabwe.” 
He expressed scepticism on the government committing to pay the fees considering that it is “erratic” as far as payment of beam funds is concerned.
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Teachers' Struggle In Zimbabwe Continues - Takavafira Zhou

The Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) has said it welcomes the government’s decision to investigate reports that <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/11/30/ptuz-and-uk-regime-change-plot-false-accusation-wont-help-ptuz/">it’s leaders were working with the United Kingdom government to undermine the administration led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa.</a> The union reiterates that it is unthinkable for them to unseat Mnangagwa who has full control of state institutions including the security forces. PTUZ in recent weeks clashed with government after declaring that its members will not invigilate ZIMSEC examinations that started Monday, if they are not paid allowances. Pindula News presents a statement issued by PTUZ president Takavafira Zhou:
<blockquote>
<h2>PTUZ Welcomes Objective Investigations but Condemns False Accusations and Diversionary Tactics</h2>
1 December 2021
As PTUZ we welcome govt investigations on teachers’ unions allegedly working in cohorts with the UK to deliver a regime change. This is a rational approach that we believe can unravel the truth if objectively done. Sadly, ZBC and Herald have already found culprits before any investigations are carried out. 
As PTUZ we are baffled by such a lackadaisical, warped and vacuous approach. Wouldn’t it have been more prudent to investigate and make informed enunciations rather than the ludicrous hallucination of falsely accusing legitimate union leaders of a crime they have not committed? 
ZBC and Herald have not only peddled a tissue of misrepresentation, high sounding nothing but falsehoods of the worst order. How a legitimate teachers’ union can overnight assume powers to change an entrenched totalising hegemonic power with full control of security forces, remains baffling and puzzling. 
We posit that this is a diversionary tactic tailor-made to weaken our focus on teachers’ welfare and the establishment of a credible system of education in Zimbabwe. 
We want to reiterate that PTUZ is not and will never become an appendage of any political party or govt. It is a labour union with members cutting across the political divide. 
We however have no apology for advancing the interests of teachers and defending any gains made. For this reason, we have knocked at every govt door including the office of the President, ED Mnangagwa, petitioning parliamentary portfolio committees over the parlous state of our education system, lack of investment in quality public education, living wage and payment for invigilation of examinations run by a parastatal, Zimsec, among many other things. 
This is a struggle that we are prepared to fight for every time, and if need be die for, as it is the basis for the sustainable development of Zimbabwe. We have no regrets for managing the nation’s best assets, viz, pupils, but only call upon those who make decisions to engage in broad consultations and act responsibly, as opposed to educational vandalism and entrenchment of poverty and penury of teachers. Blame us now it doesn’t matter, history will absolve us.
Venceremos
Dr Takavafira M. Zhou, PTUZ President
</blockquote>
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

How Can We Dethrone Mnangagwa Who Has Full Control Of Security Forces - PTUZ

The Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) has dismissed as false reports that it was working with the British government to topple the Zimbabwean government. The teachers’ union said it was merely pushing for a better wage for teachers. PTUZ has been leading the campaign to have teachers boycott invigilating ZIMSEC examinations if the government does not commit to paying them allowances. Said PTUZ president Takavafira Zhou:
<blockquote>
<h2> False Accusation of PTUZ Leaders Would Not Address the Challenges Faced by Teachers</h2>
30 November 2021
Instead of restoring the purchasing power parity of teachers’ salaries and allowing ZIMSEC to sign contractual agreements for invigilation of public examinations, Gvt (through ZBC News) has adopted a trajectory of falsehoods, accusing PTUZ leadership of working with the British for regime change. 
We are aware of the African proverb that when a leopard wanted to eat its young ones, it first accused them of smelling like a goat. Govt is such a leopard in this scenario. Such ludicrous hallucination is not only baffling but the madness of the worst order. Govt must learn to shoot at the message rather than blaming the messenger. There is an urgent need to restore teachers’ salaries to a pre-October 2018 level of an average of US$540. 
A win-win situation over invigilation of public examinations can only be reached through a contractual agreement between ZIMSEC and teachers and payment for such invigilation. 
Attempts to silence Ptuz leadership through cheap blackmailing would not work, let alone find traction among teachers. The ball is now in teachers’ courts. It’s high time teachers must stop standing on the touchline to watch a game they should be playing. It is important for teachers in schools to liberate themselves from Zimsec abuse. 
We have, as PTUZ, notified both ZIMSEC and PSC, let alone copied communiques to the line Ministry. The time for practical action at the theatre of struggle, viz, schools, to influence decision making and a swift address of the impasse between teachers and Zimsec is now. No amount of false accusation will stop an idea whose time is up. No pay, no invigilation, must henceforth come into effect.
Venceremos
Dr Takavafira M. Zhou (PTUZ President)
</blockquote>
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

PTUZ And UK Regime Change Plot: False Accusation Won't Help - PTUZ

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Progressive_Teachers_Union_of_Zimbabwe">Progressive Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ)</a> has said the government’s plan to recruit 10 000 teachers in 2022 is insignificant considering that about 60 000 teachers are needed. Finance minister Professor <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mthuli_Ncube">Mthuli Ncube</a> last week Thursday told Parliament that he was intending to allocate $11.6 billion to the education sector for the refurbishment of schools and recruitment of more teachers, all meant to reduce teacher: learner ratio. PTUZ president, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Takavafira_Zhou">Takavafira Zhou</a> said in a statement:
<blockquote>
Recruitment of 10 000 Teachers for 2022 Insignificant
30 November 2021
Govt enunciation to recruit 10 000 teachers in 2022 in order to reduce teacher: pupil ratio and decongest schools, falls far short of the minimum threshold of 60 000 teachers needed in schools.
Not only is the number inadequate, but there is no corresponding investment in quality public education and, therefore, no meaningful learning and teaching would ensue in schools. 
The govt has failed to allocate more than 22% of the total budget to the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, which entails that any attempt to implant industrial harmony and productivity would remain a dream under such stringent budgetary allocations.
The year 2022 is, therefore, likely to continue without meaningful dialogue between govt and its workers thereby generating industrial disharmony and limited productivity. 
The payment of a living wage to govt workers is crucial in enhancing productivity and sustainable development. The poor salaries within govt workers have also triggered corruption in some govt departments as a survival tactic. Sadly, govt pursuit of neo-liberal policies has no traction and will militate against industrial harmony, let alone sustainable development. 
Without resources and with disgruntled, hungry and poor teachers, the recovery of the education system remains remote and unimaginable. 
Agenda 2030 for a revolution in the education system with the provision of life serving skills that can ensure the functionality of pupils beyond the classroom will remain a pipe dream.
Venceremos
Dr Takavafira M. Zhou (PTUZ President) 
</blockquote>
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Recruitment Of 10 000 Teachers For 2022 Insignificant - PTUZ

The Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) has said teachers will “scale up our incapacitation struggle” if the government does not restore their pre-October 2018 salaries that were around US$540. Said PTUZ president Takavafira Zhou in a statement:
<blockquote>
<h2>Salary, Bonus, Invigilation: Teachers Engage A High Gear</h2>
27 November 2021
Bonus has never been the thrust of our struggle but it is now long overdue. Lies have short legs, and what teachers expect before the end of November is to get a hard US$ bonus. There will be no excuse whatsoever, and the sooner the money is deposited in every teacher’s Nostro account, the better. For the avoidance of doubt, PTUZ or its SG, Raymond Majongwe, has not discussed disbursement of bonus with any govt official. That we see his name associated with a purported meeting that exists in the figment of the imagination of the writer baffles logic. It’s known that it is only the colleagues in Apex who would purport to discuss an issue that has long been unilaterally determined. However, there is a meeting between the United Front of Teacher Unions and the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education on Monday, where the bonus issue may feature as a sideshow of many pertinent issues such as sectoral allowances and invigilation of Public Examinations.
Unless there would be a new position navigated on Monday, our current position communicated to ZIMSEC and PSC, and copied to our line Ministry is “No contract/no payment, No Invigilation Teachers” must therefore walk their talk in order to communicate a bold message to Zimsec that has decided to be dishonest with the truth and take teachers for granted.
The battle for the restoration of the purchasing power parity of teachers’ salaries is our key pre-occupation that must unite teachers across the teacher union divide. Govt has accepted that the RTGs is an affront and useless denomination, and the time is now to ensure that henceforth, teachers would be paid US$ dominated salaries. Teachers do not need an increment but restoration of their pre-October 2018 salaries pegged at an average of US$540 as a matter of urgency. It’s either we get US$540, or else we will scale up our incapacitation struggle. Our action over the payment for invigilation of public examinations must be a dress rehearsal for the restoration of the purchasing power parity of teachers’ salaries. No teacher must afford to stand on the touchline to watch a game we should all be playing. All teachers must be part of the solution and not part of the problem. Let’s walk our talk and defend the teaching profession.
Venceremos
Dr Takavafira M. Zhou, PTUZ President
</blockquote>
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Salary, Bonus, Invigilation: Teachers Engage A High Gear

The Progressive Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) has said teachers must be aggressive in pushing the government to restore their 2018 salaries. PTUZ president, Dr Takavafira Zhou issued a statement this Tuesday, a payday. Pindula News presents the statement. 

<blockquote>
<h2>Which Way Forward?: Teachers are their own Liberators!!!</h2>
Today is payday for teachers – a day of agony and anguish among teachers in Zimbabwe. On such a day PTUZ leaders are inundated by teachers’ voices calling for Union action in order to get a living wage. But unless we analyse our weaknesses and strengths, the trajectory of mourning starvation wages will continue. As much as PTUZ deplores and denounces govt’s lackadaisical approach in addressing teachers’ legitimate demands of the restoration of their purchasing power parity of salaries pegged at US$520-US$550, it is prudent for teachers to fight for their status restoration. The days of divine intervention are over, and teachers must define and defend an alternative way forward that can lift them from grass to grace.
Those that cant swim across a narrow river cannot suddenly find energy to swim across the ocean. If teachers are serious we must see such seriousness by following the current Ptuz modus operandi in toto. Teachers suggested a minimum of a day and maximum of two days work and Monday and Tuesday as alternative working days. Other teacher unions also suggested alternative way forward. Until there are no teachers in schools on Wednesday to Friday it would be difficult to listen to any mouths opening or WhatsApp bravado currently pushing leaders for what is termed “total shut down.”
Teachers are their own liberators. Even slaves fought for their emancipation. When real poverty (ngwavaira teteguru venhamo) sinks deep among teachers, we will unite and deliver a coup degrade (final blow) against poverty and penury. None but teachers can change the current parlous state in the education system. Our concerted and unflinching pressure on the arrogant employer, PSC, would force the employer to concede to our legitimate demands and check commandist unilateralism epitomised by the so-called ‘no work no pay’ when in reality teachers are incapacitated, let alone burdensome CALA and forced invigilation of public examination when teachers have no contract with Zimsec. The passivity and complicity of some teachers to the current starvation wages in Zimbabwe may certainly deserve a special case study as it baffles logic and common sense.
As PTUZ, we remain ready to lead, but only when we have enough brave teachers ready to liberate themselves, and not cry babies. We cannot continue to agonise and expect a miracle to improve our plight. But if we organise and unite across the union divide, we will emerge victorious. We are everything, yet we count for nothing. We either have to unite as sisters and brothers and fight a liberation struggle or perish as fools. Teachers must walk their talk and talk their walk. Waiting on the touchline to watch a game you should be playing, and expect positive results has no traction. Let’s be part of the solution and not part of the problem. 
Venceremos
Dr Takavafira M. Zhou, PTUZ President 
</blockquote>
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a></h2>

Teachers Told To Fight For Better Salaries "Or Perish As Fools"

The Progressive Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) has said the offer made by Rwanda to have Zimbabwean teachers sent to the Central/Eastern African country is just a tip of an iceberg. PTUZ speaks after the president of Rwanda, Paul Kagame suggested that Zimbabwe could offer good teachers to Rwanda. Dr Takavafira Zhou, PTUZ president who is also a senior official in the opposition MDC Alliance said:
<blockquote>
<h2>Rwanda’s Offer to Zimbabwean Teachers, Tip of the Iceberg</h2>
As PTUZ, we have over a long period approached the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education with suggestions for government to government agreements for export of teachers at regional, continental and global levels. Such agreements could go a long way in enabling teachers to make money over a period of 5 to 20 years which they can ultimately invest in Zimbabwe in general and education system in particular. Sadly, our suggestions have over a long period been snubbed. We remain disturbed by a mere closetion with Rwandan offer when the whole of Southern African countries are getting teachers from Zimbabwe on a silver platter that also do not have national protection as they are used as cheap labour. There is, therefore, need to adopt a broad phenomenon approach that can see Zimbabwe benefitting from training and expertise of its own teachers in the same way Cuba benefitted from the expertise of its own doctors. That panacea can, therefore, not only come from a government to government agreement with Rwanda, but with willing countries regionally, continental and globally. Nor must this be restricted to graduates from Chitepo’s ideological school as some warped opinions are suggesting. It is also sad that while outside countries like Botswana, South Africa, Namibia, Swaziland, Mozambique, South Sudan and Rwanda appreciate the expertise of teachers from Zimbabwe, we are busy denigrating teachers at home. What an oxymoron? Is it a case of a disciple failing to get honour in his/her home town, I wonder? As much as the brain circulation can go a long way in injecting capital in the country, we must also ensure a balance and continuous supply by investing in quality public education, and paying teachers in Zimbabwe well.
We have even suggested offering Zimbabwean examinations regionally where it has many takers from Zimbabweans located there and those who envy our education system, but our sound suggestions have not found takers within the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education. We certainly cannot make a difference when we have education officials who are not dynamic, innovative and industrious. We even need exchange programmes with other Southern African countries so that we benefit from cross-pollination of educational ideas in Southern Africa, more so given the fact that the current borders are artificial creations of colonialists that must never create barriers to development but provide opportunities to brain circulation and development. At any rate, we have SADC protocols that can be utilised to make this a reality.
Hopefully, the incoming Minister of Education would be receptive to professional ideas and stop Matema’s long march along the commandist road of vandalism and peddled lies.
With more insight, greater planning and dexterity, Zimbabwe can grow to greater heights as an educational hub of Southern Africa.
Venceremos
Dr Takavafira M. Zhou, PTUZ President
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>

Rwanda's Offer To Zimbabwean Teachers, Tip of the Iceberg - PTUZ

The president of the Progressive Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ), Dr Takavafira Zhou, has said schools will likely not open Monday as it is highly likely that teachers will be protesting against poor salaries. Schools are scheduled to reopen on Monday for non-examination classes after a prolonged closure due to the coronavirus pandemic. Pindula News presents Zhou’s statement issued on Sunday 5 September 2021.
<blockquote>
All students will be back at school tomorrow but the availability of teachers in schools is not guaranteed.
Fundamentally, teachers have no money to pay fees for their own children, pay for transport costs to their respective stations, and for their upkeep up to their September payday. To assume that teachers can borrow money in order to go to their respective stations whilst their own children remain confined at home is oxymoronic.
Contrary to the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education’s facade of lies to the effect that schools are ready to open, the five days of school opening for exam classes has shown beyond any reasonable doubt all signs of ill-preparedness in form of no running water in schools, no covid abatement equipment in schools, no recruitment of many teachers to guarantee appropriate teacher: pupil ration, no new infrastructural development to guarantee social distance. 
As we warned, there are two schools in Manicaland where students tested positive to covid 19, the latest being Kriste Mambo High, where 9 students tested positive out of 18 students tested on day 5 after opening. There are several reports of students exhibiting covid 19 symptoms in schools. As such, we reiterate that the conglomeration of more than 140000 teachers, more than 5 million pupils and over 80 000 ancillary staff in schools without any testing is a time bomb that can explode with disastrous consequences.
We reiterate that without a rescue package to enable incapacitated teachers to travel to their respective stations, there will be no teachers in schools. There is, therefore, a need to guarantee the welfare of teachers, let alone the health and safety of teachers and pupils. The incapacitation struggle of teachers will therefore continue unabated this week. The unity of teachers will guarantee its success, while fear, docility and borrowing and indebtedness of teachers will entrench their’ suffering. Teachers, therefore, have a choice either to collectively liberate themselves or entrench their immiseration, disarticulation and poverty, let alone compromise their health and safety.
Venceremos
Dr Takavafira M. Zhou, Ptuz President
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>

Without Teachers, Schools Cannot Successfully Open - PTUZ

The Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) has refuted claims by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education that the ministry represents more teachers than all unions combined.
The ministry’s spokesperson Taungana Ndoro was recently quoted in the press claiming that the ministry represents about two–thirds of teachers who are not affiliated with any trade unions. Ndoro was quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
We welcome all unions that represent teachers for the betterment of the educational system. However, the ministry also represents about two-thirds of the teachers who are not subscribing to any union.
</blockquote>
In response to Ndoro’s claims, Dr Takavafira Zhou, the president of the Progressive Teachers’ Union (PTUZ) criticised the former for belittling the contribution of teachers’ unions. <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/teachers-question-the-role-of-ministry-in-trade-unionism/">Zhou told NewZimbabwe in an interview:</a>
<blockquote>
We note with deep concern the continued demeaning of teacher unions by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education spokesperson, Taungana Ndoro. Fundamentally, Ndoro is trying to water down the importance of unions on the basis of a false pretext that they represent one-third of teachers in Zimbabwe. For the avoidance of doubt, this is a lie. We have 140 000 teachers in Zimbabwe, and for Ndoro to claim that unionized members are 46 666 is a travesty of reality and dangerous misinformation.
Ndoro also makes a dangerous, acidic,  arid and toxic assertion that the Ministry has taken a paternalistic approach of representing the majority of teachers (two thirds) that are not unionised. The Big Question, and problem of all problems and evil of all evils is who has appointed Ministry the representative of these teachers? Such misrepresentation of facts and insults of teacher unions cannot be taken lightly.
</blockquote>
Turning to teachers’ salaries, Zhou urged the government to amend Statutory Instrument 141 of 1997 in line with section 65 of the constitution.
He said the current scenario suggests that the government has so far “been negotiating with itself through the self-appointing Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education,” which is representing some teachers.
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>

Teachers' Unions, Government Contradict On Teacher Representation

The president of the Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) Dr Takavafira Zhou has said the <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/07/21/civil-servants-get-salary-increment/">45 per cent to 50 per cent salary increment</a> made by the government falls far short of teachers’ expectations. Pindula News presents Dr Zhou’s statement.
<blockquote>Recent govt offer of 45% falls far short of teachers’ minimum expectations. Fundamentally, the offer was unilateral and not a product of engagement and therefore, one-armed banditry in nature. Nothing was done to address salary discrepancies introduced in June 2020 between teachers and other govt workers. As such, the recent offer of 45% across govt workers has widened the gap between teachers and other govt workers.
The 45% has taken the lowest-paid teacher from $13300 to $20000 and highest-paid teacher to about $35000 which fall far short of teachers’ expectations. Above all, teachers never asked for a salary increase but restoration of the purchasing power parity of their salaries as of October 2018, viz, US$520-US$550.
As Ptuz, we encourage govt to respect fair labour practice, collective bargaining and engagement with teacher unions, let alone to pay teachers a living wage. It is prudent to urgently address the welfare of teachers, so that when schools open, possibly in September, the main thrust would be on meaningful learning and teaching to prepare pupils for examinations. Incapacitated teachers will certainly not perform a herculean feat that teachers are called upon to perform when schools open. It is our hope that govt would seriously consider this professional advice in order to create a conducive environment to assist pupils in 2021.
Venceremos
Dr Takavafira M. Zhou (Ptuz President)</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>

Govt's Unilateral Offer Falls Far Short Of Teachers' Expectations - PTUZ

The president of the Progressive Teachers Union (PTUZ) <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Takavafira_Zhou">Dr Takavafira Zhou</a> has accused the government of gambling with teachers’ welfare and lives.
In a statement published Thursday, Zhou said the announcement by <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/06/08/zimbabwe-records-9-8-billion-budget-surplus/">treasury that Zimbabwe had a budget surplus</a> when teachers and other workers were being paid paltry salaries was an insult.
Pindula News present below the statement by Zhou who is also an MDC Alliance official.
<blockquote>The Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Mthuli Ncube, has recently stated that Zimbabwe has had a $9.8 billion budget surplus. Yet, the PSC has been peddling a budget deficit and urging teachers to be more patient with the government in financial dire straits. Teachers and their families have been too patient for too long a time. We have knocked at every government door, be it parliament, parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Primary and Secondary Education, Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Salaries and Conditions of Service for Civil Servants, PSC, and President’s office, but nothing has materialised.</blockquote>

<ul>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/06/08/zimbabwe-records-9-8-billion-budget-surplus/">‘Zimbabwe Records $9.8 Billion Budget Surplus’</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/06/03/teachers-grievances-brought-to-mbuya-nehanda/">Teachers’ Grievances “Brought To Mbuya Nehanda”</a></li>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/05/18/urgently-address-teachers-starvation-salaries-union/">“Urgently Address Teachers’ Starvation Salaries” – Union</a></li>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/05/12/zimsec-clash-with-teachers-over-payment-of-marking-allowance/">ZIMSEC Clash With Teachers Over Payment Of Marking Allowance</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/05/07/schools-re-introduce-teachers-incentives/">Schools Re-introduce Teachers’ Incentives</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/05/07/teachers-unions-ban-extra-lessons/">Teachers Unions Ban Extra Lessons</a></li>
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<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/04/21/teachers-scoff-at-25-salary-increment/">Teachers Scoff At 25% Salary Increment</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/04/20/teachers-respond-to-govts-no-work-no-pay-threats/">Teachers Respond To Govt’s ‘No Work, No Pay’ Threats</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/03/22/teachers-protest-poor-salaries-as-schools-reopen/">Teachers Protest Poor Salaries As Schools Reopen</a></li>
</ul>
It is clear the government is gambling with teachers’ welfare and lives. The treatment of teachers in a degrading, discriminatory, dehumanizing and servitude manner is unacceptable, more so at a time when other civil servants with less qualifications and responsibilities are getting a better deal. The call for the restoration of the purchasing power parity of teachers’ salaries is legitimate and must be met by the government as a matter of urgency. The budget surplus must also be used to pay teachers a living wage. The payment of a salary amounting to US$520-US$550 or its equivalence is legitimate in the best interest of quality public education through well trained, supported, and motivated teachers. As Ptuz, we urge the government to address the plight of teachers during this holiday so that the salary impasse would not affect effective learning and teaching next term.
However, should government fail to address teachers’ plight over the holidays, teachers must budget for an escalated incapacitation modus operandi. Teachers are not slaves but workers with rights to fair labour practice and living wage as professionals. Teachers must liberate themselves through unity in action. Our consistent, persistent and unrelenting collective action as professionals will see us through.
Venceremos
Dr Takavafira M. Zhou (Ptuz President)

Government Gambling With Teachers' Welfare & Lives - PTUZ

Progressive Teachers Union Zimbabwe (PTUZ) has released the following statement which states that they will not be offering their services if the government does not review their salaries. The teachers said any attempt by the government to fast track reopening schools without addressing the salaries issue will be met with hostility.
Signed by PTUZ President Takavafira Zhou the statement reads:
<blockquote>30 August 2020
We note with concern (from various reports) that dates for reopening of schools will be announced by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, Cain Matema, this week. It is sad that such a enunciation would be made without engaging teacher unions.
While we appreciate coverage of provision of covid abatement equipment before opening of schools including testing kits and other PPEs, we are worried that the issue of welfare of teachers has been conspicuous by its absence from reports. We hereby reiterate that other than meeting the health and safety of teachers and pupils, welfare issues must be high on the agenda.
No school would open without addressing the recently introduced salary discrepancies and restoring the purchasing power parity of teachers’ salaries. Teachers unequivocally, unreservedly and unanimously call for the restoration of their October 2018 salaries pegged at US$550.
Any attempt to fast track the opening of schools without addressing this crucial issue will be met by an equal and opposing force in line with Isaac Newton’s law of motion. Equally important is the fact that teachers have resolved that they would not mark June exams unless the issue of their salaries is resolved. It is our hope that gvt will engage teachers in order to find a win-win solution to the quandary of reopening schools.
Whatever the case would be there is no doubt that the pre-conditionalities of opening schools are multi-dimensional, involving health, safety and welfare issues. There would be no compromise whatsoever over such crucial issues.
Venceremos
Dr Takavafira M. Zhou (Ptuz President)</blockquote>
The government has not commented on the letter from PTUZ so far.

FULL TEXT: No Salary Review, No Opening Of Schools - PTUZ

Teachers are reportedly planning to boycott invigilating next week’s ZIMSEC exams because of poor working conditions, New Zimbabwe reports.
While addressing the issue of invigilating exams, PTUZ president Takavafira Zhou said:
<blockquote>The issue of invigilating June exams is before the courts where both ZimSec and the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education had promised to put testing kits, thermometers, sanitisers, PPEs in schools by the 26th of June.
They also promised that they would have cleaned and disinfected schools currently used as quarantine centres by then. Surprisingly, the ministry and Zimsec have been belting and bellowing instructions to school heads to scavenge for Covid-19 abatement requirements at a zero budget, an impossible feat indeed.</blockquote>
Zhou also urged teachers to wait for official communication from them as the matter is still before the court and not listen to schools heads of education officers:
<blockquote>To all teachers in Zimbabwe, be advised that the issue of invigilation is before the courts, all communiques made so far have no locus standi and must be disregarded forthwith. Our health, safety and welfare should come first. Anything else must be resisted by all means possible.
We can’t fast track our demise by dining with death and being reckless with our health, safety and welfare. All teachers in Zimbabwe must forthwith disregard unlawful instructions from some school heads threatening teachers with unspecified action should they not report for invigilation.
Teachers are duly advised to resist all unlawful instructions from school heads, DSIs, PEDs and head office. We have nothing to fear.</blockquote>
Ordinary and Advanced level examinations are poised to start next week despite leaners having last been in school on 24 March 2020.
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/teachers-vow-to-boycott-june-exam-invigilation-over-poor-wages/">New Zimbabwe </a>

Teachers Planning To Boycott Invigilating ZIMSEC June Exams Over Poor Working Conditions - Report

PTUZ president Takavafira Zhou, fuming over <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mthuli_Ncube">Mthuli Ncube</a>‘s proposed bill to deduct 2.5% from all civil servants to set up a civil servants loan facility said the government was sending a very wrong message to the public that everyone needs to have a gun to be respected in Zimbabwe, New Zimbabwe reports.
Speaking to the publication Zhou said:
<blockquote>This cabinet‘s decision to establish special shops for the uniformed soldiers is madness of the highest order. This is a clear violation of the Constitution because soldiers are now going to be treated as first class citizens
The government is simply telling other Zimbabweans that they need to possess arms in order for them to be respected as well. Everybody is wallowing in poverty. What the government is doing is tantamount to fire-fighting
We will resist that obnoxious, callous and unjust measure by the government. PTUZ has taken a position to mobilise teachers across the union and the generality of Zimbabweans to resist this tax. According to our calculations, the government will raise more than $10 million alone in taxes from the teachers only.</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/mthuli-ncubes-2-5-civil-servants-tax-a-threat-to-national-security-ptuz/">New Zimbabwe </a>

Teachers Fume Over Mthuli's Proposed 2.5% Tax Scheme, Says The Move Is A National Security Threat

The MDC has said that its two members from Gokwe were abducted by suspected State security agents on Tuesday morning. MDC Midlands provincial spokesperson Takavafira Zhou said that their whereabouts were still unknown last night.
The missing activists are Prince Paradza and Edify Vushoma from Gokwe Central. A missing persons report was made at Gokwe Police Station. Witnesses told Southern Eye that the duo had an altercation with individuals suspected to be State operatives who accused them of pulling down President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s campaign poster during last year’s elections. The source said:
<blockquote>During the altercation by their tormentors, the two MDC activists were given four hours to either replace the poster or disappear. We strongly believe that the threat has been put into action.</blockquote>
Zhou also concurred with the source said:
<blockquote>The duo was falsely accused of removing Mnangagwa’s poster and was given a four-hour ultimatum. However, they politely indicated that there were not the ones who had pulled it down and so they could not replace it.</blockquote>
He added that the poster in question had, in fact, been pulled down by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission officers ahead of the 2018 elections since it was in the vicinity of a polling station. He also said that the MDC was disturbed by the abduction and demanded the immediate release of the duo.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2019/06/mdc-activists-abducted/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">NewsDay</a>

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