Local Government and Public Works Minister, Daniel Garwe, has promised civil servants free Wi-Fi and residential stands while defending his push for an extension of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term beyond 2028, when his current term ends, reported <a href="https://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-national-byo-250906.html">Bulawayo24</a>.
Garwe, a strong advocate of the ED2030 agenda has repeatedly compared Mnangagwa to the biblical Moses, claiming he was divinely chosen to lead Zimbabwe’s transformation.
Speaking recently in Mahusekwa, Mashonaland East Province, Garwe pledged to provide free Wi-Fi to youthful civil servants, who are expected to purchase homes within a proposed 250,000-unit, high-end gated community by businessman Phillip Chiyangwa.
Chiyangwa, who attended the event, boasted about his company, Pinnacle Property Holdings, securing a deal with the government to offer civil servants the opportunity to live in his development before eventually owning the properties outright.
Garwe further claimed that Mnangagwa holds the sole right to continue leading the country, even beyond 2030. He said:
<blockquote>
From a government perspective, on this programme alone, we are delivering about five policy stations. The first one being human settlement policy that we must provide citizens with well-planned and well-governed settlements.
Settlements with properly designed and constructed road networks, sewer reticulation, water reticulation and other services including electricity and Wi-Fi now. 
It is going to be a gated community and obviously, people especially the younger generation (Civil servants) cannot survive where there is no Wi-Fi and we have accepted that semadhara (as old people serving in government), and that is policy station number 1.
The second policy station is to ensure that we obliterate the existence of an animal called land baron by providing people with well planned, well services and well governed settlements where people (once start paying for their respective stands) they are rest assured that they are going to have title to that piece of land.
The third is that we are now speaking to the regularisation policy as we move forward as a country, let’s build better forward which is being experienced here under the mantra, Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo.
</blockquote>
Garwe said the project will allow civil servants and ordinary Zimbabweans to own land, while also eliminating land barons. He said:
<blockquote>
What we talk about is what we do and what we do is what we talk about. Number five is the policy on no one and no place is left behind.
Two hundred and fifty thousand stands, (residential, commercial, industrial and upstairs) so civil servants, here is an opportunity to own land, ordinary Zimbabweans, here is an opportunity to own land, urban land in terms of stands that have no issues with respect to land barons, stands with papers since you have title deeds once to make payments.
Manyame is not going to be left behind and the entirety of civil service or ordinary Zimbabweans. These are all the policies coming from the Head of State, Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa.
To go further, this is the reason why we are saying, President, why can’t you take us to 2030 so that all those areas where we still have gaps, they will be developed in terms of you driving your Vision as Head of State, driving the mission, objectives of that Vision that Zimbabwe will be developed and must be developed.
</blockquote>
Chiyangwa said that both civil servants and ordinary citizens could purchase units in his gated community and fully own the properties once they met the agreed terms and conditions. He said:
<blockquote>
As you can see for yourself, we said we are providing 250,000 units. When I say units, I mean stands as well as flats and other business centres, so we have the Minister here putting up a statement on the availability of other stands because we have these stands which we are supposed to supply the whole nation including both civil servants and ordinary people.
</blockquote>

Pindula News

A man named Garwe promised free Wi-Fi and housing to civil servants. He wants the President to stay in power even after 2028. Another man named Chiyangwa is offering homes to civil servants to buy. Garwe said the President is the only one fit to lead. The plan is to help people own land and get rid of land barons. Chiyangwa also said that everyone can buy units in his gated community and fully own them. The government wants to develop the country by 2030.

Garwe Promises Free Wi-Fi And Housing For Civil Servants

The Public Service Commission (PSC) has issued a circular to all Government Ministries announcing that Statutory Instrument 197 of 2024, the Public Service (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 (No. 3), is now in effect.
The regulation stipulates that for public service employees appointed before the effective date, the pensionable age is 65, with the option to retire at 70 years while still receiving a full pension.
The circular, titled Circular No. 3 of 2025, was signed by the PSC Secretary, Sibusisiwe Zembe, and dated January 28, 2025. It reads in part:
<blockquote>
Following the coming into effect of Statutory Instrument 197 of 2024 on 01 January 2025, you are hereby advised to adhere to the following key provisions and implementation guidelines of the new regulations:
1. The mandatory retirement age for members appointed into Public Service is now seventy (70) years.
2. The stipulated age for early retirement for members is now sixty (60) years upon approval of the Commission.
3. Section 6(b)(1) of Statutory Instrument 1 of 2000, as amended, regarding the age limit to appointment on pensionable conditions of service, is still in force. This, therefore, means that a candidate shall not be appointed to the Public Service on pensionable conditions of service if he or she is fifty (50) years of age or above. However, any such person may be appointed on contract for a specified period of service.
4. Members below the age of sixty (60) and above the fifty-five (55) who were in service prior to 1 January 2025, can retire upon the approval of the Commission.
5. Members who were in service prior to 1 January 2025, are allowed to retire at sixty- five (65) upon giving notice.
6. The provisions of Statutory Instrument 197 of 2024 shall not apply to persons who retired on or before 31 December 2024.
</blockquote>

The government has changed the rules for when civil servants can retire. Before, they could retire at 60, but now they can wait until they are 70 and still get their full pension. If they want to retire early, they can do so at 60 with permission. If they were already working before the new rules took effect, they can retire at 65. People over 55 can also retire with approval. These new rules do not apply to people who retired before December 31, 2024.

PSC Announces New Retirement Age Guidelines For Civil Servants

The Public Service Commission (PSC) has begun implementing regulations to extend the retirement age for civil servants and uniformed personnel from 65 to 70 years, reported <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/govt-starts-implementing-new-retirement-age/">The Herald</a>.
This change follows concerns from government workers, particularly teachers, about the delay in enacting the new law.
Statutory Instrument 197 of 2024, known as the Public Service (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 (No. 3), was published on December 30, 2024.
The regulation states that for public service employees appointed before the effective date, the pensionable age is 65 years, with the option to retire at 70 years with a full pension.
For those appointed on or after the effective date, the pensionable age is set at 70 years.
Despite this, some employees, particularly teachers, have been asked to retire, even if they had expressed a desire to extend their retirement age to 70.
Some teachers have also faced eviction from school quarters as headmasters instructed them to retire, arguing that they had not received a circular formally allowing the extension.
In an interview with The Herald on Wednesday, Moses Mhike, Permanent Secretary for Primary and Secondary Education, said that the implementation of the regulations had been delayed due to factors involving the PSC. Said Mhike:
<blockquote>
We got a circular yesterday from PSC and we have started sharing it with our structures. Yes PSC had delayed issuing the circular to guide Line Ministries.
</blockquote>
Justice, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi said that the decision to extend the retirement age was aimed at utilising the skills and experience of individuals who have reached 65.
He also said the extension reflects the country’s rising life expectancy, with middle-aged adults now living into their 80s.

The government is extending the retirement age for teachers and civil servants from 65 to 70 years. Some teachers have been asked to retire before they turn 70, even if they want to work longer. This change is meant to keep experienced workers in their jobs for longer. The delay in implementing the new law caused confusion and uncertainty for many employees. The government hopes the new retirement age will make use of workers' skills and experience as people live longer.

Teachers And Civil Servants Face Uncertainty Over Retirement Age Extension

The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has voiced its disapproval of the government’s decision to extend the retirement age for civil servants and uniformed forces, stating that the move fails to address the fundamental welfare issues affecting its employees and pensioners.
This comes after the government, through Statutory Instrument 197 of 2024, increased the retirement age for civil servants and uniformed officers by five years, effective January 1, 2025.
Under the new regulations, civil servants can now retire at the age of 70, up from the previous 65, while regular soldiers’ retirement age has been raised to 55 from 50, with the option to serve until 60 or 65 for war veterans.
In a statement issued this Friday, January 24th, ZCTU’s Acting Secretary General, Runesu Dzimiri, criticized the government’s approach, arguing that the administration needs to address the pressing welfare challenges faced by its employees to make retirement a more attractive prospect. He said:
<blockquote>
Civil servants and pensioners are plagued with serious welfare challenges arising from poor remuneration and working conditions that are pauperising them to the extent that they involuntarily find it reasonable to work forever instead of resting and enjoying their old age
</blockquote>
Dzimiri said it was outrageous for the government to unilaterally extend the retirement age, without engaging in adequate consultations with its employees and their representatives.
He said that while it is optional to work beyond the previous retirement age is available, this choice should not be driven by desperation or the fear of poverty in retirement, but rather by genuine desires and needs. Said Dzimiri:
<blockquote>
The government must pay above Poverty Datum Line salaries so that a worker can be at liberty to continue working or proceed on retirement without reservations.
Government policy need to unlock employment opportunities for thousands of youths graduating from universities, polytechnics and vocational training institutions instead of shutting them out of employment.
The move entails a five year ‘freeze’ or insignificant payment of pension gratuities with government saving millions of dollars.
The move may also disadvantage some workers who may die before reaching the age of 70 as their benefits would be significantly reduced.
</blockquote>
Dzimiri called on the government to revisit the retirement age reform, urging the administration to respect senior citizens and focus on policies that bring direct and tangible benefits to its employees and pensioners rather than crafting measures that the ZCTU perceives as akin to “slave policies” intended to extricate the government from its responsibilities.

The ZCTU is not happy that the government in Zimbabwe has extended the retirement age for civil servants and uniformed forces. They think the government should focus on improving the workers' pay and working conditions instead. The new retirement age is 70 for civil servants and 55 for regular soldiers. ZCTU believes that workers should not be forced to work longer due to poverty fears. The ZCTU wants the government to reconsider this decision and focus on policies that help the workers and pensioners. The government will save money by delaying pension payments, but workers may suffer if they pass away before they can retire.

ZCTU Slams Civil Servant Retirement Age Extension

As part of Pindula’s partnership with Bridgevest Capital, SSB Civil Servants in Zimbabwe can now buy smartphones on credit for more than 6 months. There’s now a 9 months and 12 months option even for low priced smartphones.
Below are the latest Samsung Galaxy Phones available on credit, including the instalments.
Download the full Samsung Zero Deposit PDF Catalogue on this link: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Samsung-Zero-Deposit-Catalogue-for-Civil-Servants-Jan-2025.pdf">https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Samsung-Zero-Deposit-Catalogue-for-Civil-Servants-Jan-2025.pdf</a>
<h2>Samsung Galaxy F05 (64GB storage, 4GB RAM)</h2>
<ul>
<li>3 months: $42 per month</li>
<li>6 months: $26 per month</li>
<li>9 months: $21 per month</li>
<li>12 months: $18 per month</li>
</ul>
<img alt="" class="alignnone wp-image-288512" decoding="async" height="307" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 245px) 100vw, 245px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Samsung-Galaxy-F05-techzim-e1737374825954.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Samsung-Galaxy-F05-techzim-e1737374825954.jpg 413w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Samsung-Galaxy-F05-techzim-e1737374825954-239x300.jpg 239w" width="245"/>
<h2>Samsung Galaxy A06 (64GB storage, 4GB RAM)</h2>
<ul>
<li>3 months: $44 per month</li>
<li>6 months: $28 per month</li>
<li>9 months: $22 per month</li>
<li>12 months: $20 per month</li>
</ul>
<img alt="" class="alignnone wp-image-288515" decoding="async" height="261" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 198px) 100vw, 198px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Galaxy-A06.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Galaxy-A06.jpg 379w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Galaxy-A06-227x300.jpg 227w" width="198"/>
<h2>Samsung Galaxy A06 (128GB storage, 4GB RAM)</h2>
<ul>
<li>3 months: $51 per month</li>
<li>6 months: $32 per month</li>
<li>9 months: $26 per month</li>
<li>12 months: $23 per month</li>
</ul>
<h2>Samsung Galaxy A06 (128GB storage, 6GB RAM)</h2>
<ul>
<li>3 months: $55 per month</li>
<li>6 months: $35 per month</li>
<li>9 months: $28 per month</li>
<li>12 months: $24 per month</li>
</ul>
<h2>Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 (64GB storage, 4GB RAM)</h2>
<ul>
<li>3 months: $58 per month</li>
<li>6 months: $36 per month</li>
<li>9 months: $29 per month</li>
<li>12 months: $25 per month</li>
</ul>
<img alt="" class="alignnone wp-image-288518" decoding="async" height="314" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 314px) 100vw, 314px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Galaxy-Tab-A9.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Galaxy-Tab-A9.jpg 1200w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Galaxy-Tab-A9-300x300.jpg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Galaxy-Tab-A9-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Galaxy-Tab-A9-150x150.jpg 150w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Galaxy-Tab-A9-768x768.jpg 768w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Galaxy-Tab-A9-60x60.jpg 60w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Galaxy-Tab-A9-90x90.jpg 90w" width="314"/>
 
<h2>Samsung Galaxy M15 (128GB storage, 4GB RAM)</h2>
<ul>
<li>3 months: $71 per month</li>
<li>6 months: $45 per month</li>
<li>9 months: $36 per month</li>
<li>12 months: $31 per month</li>
</ul>
<img alt="" class="alignnone wp-image-288521" decoding="async" height="275" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Samsung-Galaxy-M15-5G-1.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Samsung-Galaxy-M15-5G-1.jpg 330w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Samsung-Galaxy-M15-5G-1-238x300.jpg 238w" width="218"/>
 
<h2>Samsung Galaxy A15 (128GB storage, 4GB RAM)</h2>
<ul>
<li>3 months: $74 per month</li>
<li>6 months: $46 per month</li>
<li>9 months: $37 per month</li>
<li>12 months: $32 per month</li>
</ul>
<img alt="" class="alignnone wp-image-288522" decoding="async" height="251" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Galaxy-A15.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Galaxy-A15.jpg 313w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Galaxy-A15-260x300.jpg 260w" width="218"/>
 
<h2>Samsung Galaxy A16 (128GB storage, 4GB RAM)</h2>
<ul>
<li>3 months: $76 per month</li>
<li>6 months: $47 per month</li>
<li>9 months: $38 per month</li>
<li>12 months: $33 per month</li>
</ul>
<img alt="" class="alignnone wp-image-288524" decoding="async" height="249" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 196px) 100vw, 196px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Samsung-A16-front-and-back.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Samsung-A16-front-and-back.jpg 337w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Samsung-A16-front-and-back-236x300.jpg 236w" width="196"/>
 
<h2>Samsung Galaxy F15 5G (128GB storage, 6GB RAM)</h2>
<ul>
<li>3 months: $80 per month</li>
<li>6 months: $50 per month</li>
<li>9 months: $40 per month</li>
<li>12 months: $35 per month</li>
</ul>
<img alt="" class="alignnone wp-image-288525" decoding="async" height="258" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 206px) 100vw, 206px" src="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Samsung-F15-5G.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Samsung-F15-5G.jpg 343w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Samsung-F15-5G-240x300.jpg 240w" width="206"/>
 
Download the full catalogue of Samsung smartphones available on Zero Deposit here: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Samsung-Zero-Deposit-Catalogue-for-Civil-Servants-Jan-2025.pdf">https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Samsung-Zero-Deposit-Catalogue-for-Civil-Servants-Jan-2025.pdf</a>
<h2>How Civil Servants in Zimbabwe can apply for a smartphone on credit</h2>
A civil Servant can apply for Zero Deposit on WhatsApp by contacting the number: <a href="https://wa.me/+263715068543">+263715068543</a>
For those that prefer, they can also apply at the credit offices in Harare: Bridgevest Capital – 1st Floor Takura House, 67 Kwame Nkurumah
<h3>Application Requirements:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Picture of ID</li>
<li>Copy of Payslip</li>
<li>A photo (one can just take a photo using the phone)</li>
<li>Phone number</li>
<li>Physical Address</li>
<li>Ministry and date joined</li>
<li>Next of Kin name, relationship, address and phone number</li>
</ul>

Samsung phones are now available for civil servants in Zimbabwe to buy on credit with no deposit. They can choose from different models and pay in monthly installments for up to 12 months. To apply, they need to provide some documents and contact a number on WhatsApp or visit the credit offices in Harare. This way, civil servants can get the latest smartphones without having to pay the full amount upfront.

Samsung Phones Available On Zero Deposit To Civil Servants in Zimbabwe

A 36-year-old woman from Chikanga, Mutare, has been fined US$400 by the Mutare Magistrates’ Court for abusing the civil servants’ rebate scheme.
Lornah Bhobho, a pharmacist employed by the Ministry of Health and Child Care, was charged with fraud.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the incident occurred in March 2023 when Bhobho purchased a Toyota Aqua in her name without applying to import the vehicle through the civil servants rebate facility.
She then created a fraudulent rebate letter with a fake ZIMRA reference, falsely claiming authorization from the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development to import the vehicle duty-free.
The fraudulent rebate letter caused the state to lose potential revenue amounting to ZWL$4,264,625.17.
Bhobho was fined US$400, with a two-month imprisonment sentence in default of payment.
The Civil Servants Rebate Scheme is a government initiative that allows eligible civil servants to import motor vehicles at a reduced duty rate.
The scheme aims to improve the conditions of service for civil servants by providing them with a non-monetary benefit.
Civil servants who have served at least 10 years in the public service (or 2 years for health sector employees) are eligible. There are no restrictions for doctors.
The imported vehicle must be less than 10 years old from the date of manufacture.
Civil servants need to submit various documents, including a signed application letter, vehicle details, a letter from their Permanent Secretary, a recommendation letter from the Public Service Commission, and proof of employment.
The rebate amount varies based on the civil servant’s grade, with maximum thresholds set for different grades.
The scheme has been extended to members of service commissions and other qualifying civil servants.

A woman in Mutare was fined $400 for cheating the government's rebate program. She bought a car without following the rules and made a fake letter to avoid paying taxes. This cost the government over ZWL$4 million. The program lets civil servants get discounts on importing cars. To qualify, they need to have worked for a certain number of years and follow specific rules. This helps improve their work conditions. The woman got fined and may go to jail if she doesn't pay.

Civil Servant Fined US$400 For Abusing Rebate Scheme

Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi said that extending the retirement age for uniformed forces and civil servants aims to utilise their skills and experience effectively.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/govt-clarifies-retirement-age-extension/">The Herald </a>on Tuesday, Ziyambi said this decision also considers the increasing life expectancy in the country, where middle-aged adults are now averaging into their 80s.
Effective immediately, the retirement age for members of the uniformed forces and the three civilian public services has been increased by five years.
Ziyambi explained that without this adjustment, either pensions would need to be reduced or the working population would have to support a larger number of older individuals.
He pointed out that advancements in technology and medicine have contributed to longer life spans, and many jobs do not require extensive physical labour. He stated:
<blockquote>
Why waste productivity and experience? Instead, we must tap into that. We must harness experience to ensure efficiency.
We started with the judges to say those capable must serve on the bench to harness experience in justice delivery.
</blockquote>
The retirement age for judges was adjusted to 70, with the option to serve until 75 for those who are mentally and physically fit.
Ziyambi addressed concerns from young people about employment opportunities, reassuring them that the job market would eventually adapt to these changes, as older workers will retire over time.
According to Statutory Instrument 198 of 2024, the retirement age for civil servants has been raised from 65 to 70.
Regular soldiers can now retire at 55, an increase from 50, with options to extend their service to 60 and even 65.
Additionally, commissioned officers in the Zimbabwe Defence Forces can now retire at 65, with the possibility to serve until 70.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government of Zimbabwe is letting people in the military and civil service work for longer because they have valuable skills and experience. They also considered that people are living longer now. The retirement age has been increased by five years for these workers. This is to make sure pensions stay the same and not burden younger workers. The retirement age for judges is now 70, with an option to work until 75 if healthy. The government says the job market will adapt to these changes, offering more opportunities to younger people.

Zimbabwe Government Clarifies Retirement Age Extension For Uniformed Forces, Civil Servants

For the second consecutive month, the government has failed to pay its employees, including teachers, their salaries on time.
Some civil servants who were expecting their payments this week have yet to receive their salaries.
In November, delays in salary disbursements were already evident, with some teachers and other government workers receiving late payments in Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG), and bonuses were also delayed.
On Wednesday, the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) said the delayed salaries are insufficient to cover the needs of civil servants. ARTUZ said:
<blockquote>
For the second month in a row, the Zimbabwean government has failed to pay civil servants’ salaries on time. Civil servants are already earning paltry salaries and are battling to make ends meet.
The festive season was struck off the calendar of government workers way back. Unfortunately, the late payment of salaries adds a new layer of pain to the exploited government employees.
Failing to meet the basics for survival when others are swimming in plenty is torturous.
</blockquote>
The union alleged that while teachers continue to struggle in poverty, top bureaucrats are reaping the rewards of their manipulative actions, enjoying lavish lifestyles in exotic locations. It said:
<blockquote>
Senior government officials have since received their big perks in United States dollars. The majority of these elites are now on holiday with their families claiming to be resting from a busy year.
Indeed it was a busy year for them. Looting from the impoverished is not an easy job. Working round the clock to silence the oppressed and disenfranchised majority is not an easy task.
But as they rest they should be assured that the underpaid civil servants will not be silenced forever.
</blockquote>
ARTUZ, which is demanding at least US$1 260 per month for the lowest-paid teacher, vowed to push for better working conditions in 2025. The union said:
<blockquote>
We are not in the habit of making empty threats. The anger from the civil servants is reaching the boiling point.
2025 will be a difficult year for those who steal from the poor. We will organize and demand fair wages paid on time.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Civil servants in Zimbabwe, like teachers, have not been paid their salaries on time for two months in a row. The delayed salaries are not enough to cover their needs. The union says the government is failing to meet the basics for survival while top officials enjoy lavish lifestyles. The union is demanding better pay and working conditions in 2025. They are angry and ready to push for fair wages.

Salary Delays Hit Civil Servants Again

Former Finance Minister, Tendai Biti, has claimed that banks have been bailing out the government with civil servants’ pay, but some banks “refused to do this” in November leading to delays in payments of the ZiG component.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/banks-said-no-biti-explains-why-some-civil-servants-not-paid-salaries-on-time/">ZimLive</a>, Biti said government revenues have “collapsed to the point that at the present moment, the regime has no capacity to pay wages.” Said Biti:
<blockquote>
Revenues seriously dipped after April 5 when they introduced the ZiG. Big companies reorganised. Some retrenched, some relocated and many middle-sized companies simply shut shop.
Only US$2.5 billion was collected up to September against a budget target of US$9 billion. In the last 10 years, the country has managed to collect at least US$4 billion as budget receipts annually but the regime will be lucky to collect US$3 billion by the end of this year.
</blockquote>
Thousands of civil servants did not receive the ZiG component of their salaries last month, which included half of their annual bonus.
Despite unions threatening to strike, the government has not explained why some workers did not receive their payments on time.
Two banks were especially impacted: POSB and AFC Holdings (formerly Agribank). POSB reportedly released salaries on November 29, while civil servants with accounts at AFC Holdings were paid on December 2. Said Biti:
<blockquote>
In the past few months, banks have actually been paying salaries for the government and then subsequently waiting for a reimbursement.
In November, they refused to do this. They are miffed by the government’s failure to honour what they are owed, particularly their Non-Negotiable Certificates of Deposits (NNCDs).
</blockquote>
Biti said that the government has spent millions of dollars in unbudgeted expenditure even as the revenues continue to dry up. He said:
<blockquote>
They have been living beyond their means. They did not pull any stops in preparation for the SADC summit in July where they spent millions of dollars.
But what has really killed them is the collapse in revenue collection as a result of a shrinking tax base.
Mthuli Ncube’s policies, particularly exchange control mismanagement and skewed revenue measures, have de-industrialised the country and increased informalisation. Big players have left this economy since 2018 thanks to this finance minister and his government.
This in turn has created a desperate response where Ncube has had to resort to indirect taxes to target the informal sector.
But indirect taxes are regressive and hit the working people harder. No wonder there is such unprecedented disaffection and discontent against [Emmerson] Mnangagwa and his regime.
</blockquote>
Biti said the government should “cut taxes, encourage spending and investment, liberalise the ZiG, if not scrap it, and a drastic cut to government expenditure.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former Finance Minister Tendai Biti said banks usually help the government pay civil servants, but some banks refused in November, causing delays in salaries. The government's revenue dropped a lot, making it hard to pay wages. Many workers didn't get their full pay last month. Biti blamed the government for spending too much and not collecting enough taxes. He thinks the government should lower taxes, spend less, and change some money policies to help the economy. Biti also said that the government should explain why some workers didn't get paid on time.

"Banks' Refusal To Bail Out Government Caused Delays In Civil Servants' Salaries"

The government plans to freeze recruitment next year as it faces challenges in adequately remunerating its current workforce.
In his presentation of the ZiG276.4 billion 2025 national budget at the New Parliament Building in Mt Hampden on Thursday, Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube announced that the salary allocation for 2025 would account for 56.4% of total revenue, surpassing the government’s policy limit of keeping salaries under 50% of revenue.
Ncube said that recruitment will be restricted to critical sectors, including health and education. Said Ncube:
<blockquote>
The current remuneration framework agreed with Government workers, provides for a self-adjusting mechanism of the US$ pegged local currency component of the salary, that takes into account movements in the exchange rate.
In this regard, outlays on employment costs since April 2024 have cushioned civil servants from movements in the exchange rate
Government recently awarded a US$40 increase to the civil service, payable in local currency at the prevailing exchange rate, effective from 1 September 2024.
The 2025 allocation for employment costs of ZiG152.6 billion or 56.4% of revenue, is based on this principle and hence already factors in the exchange rate self-adjustment in workers’ salaries.
Invariably, this allocation is now above the fiscal rule threshold of containing employment costs at maximum of 50% of revenue.
To address this unsustainable position, revenue enhancement measures will be implemented, whilst also limiting the recruitment of additional personnel only to critical sectors such as health and education.
</blockquote>
Ncube stated that the Public Service Commission (PSC) will conduct a review of staffing levels within the public service, focusing on upskilling and reskilling employees where possible.
A new compensation framework will be implemented, ensuring it aligns with the principle of equal pay for equal work. He said:
<blockquote>
The rationalisation exercise will also benefit from the recent Job Evaluation Exercise, which was undertaken by the Public Service Commission, with the aim to have a fit for purpose and professional civil service, with the capacity to deliver quality public services.
The exercise identified several issues, including functional duplications and role overlaps within Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), the existence of more managerial jobs, than non-managerial jobs and the prevalence of dead-end jobs for specialists.
Going forward, Government will implement the recommendations of the Job Evaluation Report, by reviewing the manning levels in the public service, up-skill and re-skill members where feasible, as well as adopt a new compensation framework which conforms with the principles of equal pay for equal work.
In the interim, an immediate moratorium on implementation of some of the already approved structures will be necessary, pending finalisation of this exercise.
Furthermore, a tripartite dialogue exercise on the structure and reporting framework for devolved units across all MDAs is also essential, to curtail the unsustainable growth in wage-related costs.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government will stop hiring new employees due to limited funds for salaries in 2025. The Finance Minister announced that salaries will exceed the government's limit, so only critical sectors like health and education can hire new workers. A review will be done to improve skills and pay fairly. The government will also make changes to reduce duplicate roles and unnecessary jobs. This will help them save money and provide better public services. It's important to control costs and use resources wisely.

Government Plans Recruitment Freeze In 2025

Singapore’s Public Service Division (PSD) on Monday, November 25, announced that civil servants will receive 1.05 months of year-end bonus.
According to <a href="https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/civil-servants-to-get-1-05-months-year-end-bonus-junior-grade-officers-to-get-additional-600">The Straits Times</a>, junior officers in grades equivalent to Management Executive (MX)15 and MX16, and those in the Operations Support Scheme, will get an additional one-time payment of $600.
Including the mid-year bonus of 0.45 months, civil servants will receive a total of 1.5 months of bonus in 2024, up from 0.9 months in 2023.
Junior grade officers also received up to $250 in additional payment in June, totalling up to $850 in 2024.
The PSD stated that the bonus payment approach aligns with the National Wages Council’s recommendation to uplift lower-wage workers’ salaries.
The year-end payment reflects Singapore’s better-than-expected economic performance in the first three quarters of the year and current global and domestic economic situations.
Singapore’s GDP growth forecast for 2024 has been raised to around 3.5 per cent.
The Ministry of Manpower’s preliminary labour market data showed total employment grew by 24,100 in the July to September period.
Amalgamated Union of Public Employees general secretary Sanjeev Kumar Tiwari said “it is important that when our economy does well, our civil servants who have contributed to this success are rewarded accordingly”.
The additional one-time payout will help junior officers manage the rising cost of living.
NTUC and public sector unions support the payout decision, with deputy secretary-general Cham Hui Fong encouraging upskilling programmes for civil servants.
The Government will continue to pay the one-month non-pensionable annual allowance (13th month bonus) to all civil servants.
According to the official website of the Public Service Division (PSD), civil servants are part of the Singapore Public Service, which includes approximately 86,000 officers across various ministries.
These officers serve in a range of service schemes, such as the Administrative Service, Legal Service, Education Service, Police Service, Civil Defence Service, and Accounting Service, among others.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Singapore's Civil Servants will get a bigger bonus in 2024 – 1.05 months at the end of the year and $600 one-time payment for some junior officers. This is up from 0.9 months in 2023. Junior officers also got up to $250 in June. The bonus aligns with helping lower-wage workers. Singapore's economy is doing well, so the bonus is to reward civil servants for their work. NTUC and unions support the decision. The Government will also continue to pay the one-month bonus to all civil servants.

Singapore's Civil Servants To Receive Higher Bonuses In 2024

The Zimbabwean government has reportedly failed to pay civil servants on time, as many teachers—the largest group within the civil service—did not receive their salaries on the expected pay date of November 18.
In a statement, the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) warned the government against provoking civil servants.
ARTUZ said that as of Tuesday morning, approximately half of the civil servant population had yet to receive their full salaries, while the government continued to spend millions of dollars on various unnecessary trips. Said ARTUZ:
<blockquote>
We are receiving angering news. Government of [President Emmerson Mnangagwa] has failed to pay salaries on time to Civil servants. Approximately half of the Civil Servants population is still to receive their full paltry monthly allowance. We have seen this government blowing millions of dollars on one junket after the other. They must pay in time or face the anger of hard-working civil servants.
</blockquote>
This comes as the government is reducing foreign trips and banning workshops organised by government agencies due to an end-of-year cash squeeze.
Finance Secretary George Guvamatanga announced that the Treasury is also implementing a 50% reduction in fuel allocations to ministries and government departments.
Meanwhile, members of the security services and health sector reportedly received their salaries along with 50% of their bonuses last week.
Teachers and other civil service employees are scheduled to receive their salaries and 50% of their bonuses this week.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The Zimbabwe government is not paying civil servants like teachers on time. The teachers did not get paid on November 18. The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe warned the government about this. The government is spending lots of money on unnecessary trips but not paying salaries. The government is now reducing foreign trips and workshops to save money. Some civil servants like security services and health workers got paid, but others are still waiting. Teachers and other civil servants are supposed to get paid their salaries and bonuses this week.

Civil Servants Face Salary Delays As "Broke" Zimbabwe Government Fails To Pay On Time

Zimbabwe’s civil servants have begun receiving their annual bonuses, which will be paid in instalments over November and December.
Permanent Secretary Simon Masanga confirmed this in an interview with <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/civil-servants-start-receiving-annual-bonuses/">The Herald on Sunday</a>. He said:
<blockquote>
We agreed that bonuses were going to be spread over two months, that was the initial plan that we made and agreed upon.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) president Cecelia Alexander confirmed in a separate interview that civil servants have started receiving their bonuses. She said:
<blockquote>
Yes, civil servants have started receiving their bonuses, members of the uniformed forces were the first to receive and we are expecting teachers to start receiving their portion this week.
We are happy with what Government has done because they did what they said they would do during the National Joint Negotiating Council meeting.
</blockquote>
Last week, ZCPSTU told the Chronicle that the security and health sectors had started receiving part of their annual bonus. Said Dzatsunga:
<blockquote>
Yes, civil servants started receiving their bonuses, the 50 per cent as mentioned by the Government.
Uniformed forces got theirs today (Friday) and the next will be education and the last will be the rest of the civil servants.
We appreciate that civil servants got their bonuses but there is a lot that needs to be done to improve their welfare.
Come next year we will continue to engage the Government so that we get to US$840 that we want.
</blockquote>
This month, civil servants will receive 50% of their bonus, paid alongside their November salaries, with the remainder to be paid in December.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe civil servants are getting their yearly bonuses split up into two parts, in November and December. Soldiers got theirs first, followed by teachers. The government promised this during negotiations. Half of the bonus will be given this month, with the other half in December. The unions say more needs to be done to help civil servants, and they will keep talking to the government about it.

Zimbabwe Civil Servants Start Receiving Annual Bonuses

The government has said civil servants’ salaries will be maintained at 12% of the gross domestic product (GDP), with future adjustments based on GDP growth. 
This follows last week’s salary review, which increased the lowest-paid civil servants’ salaries from US$324 to US$364, backdated to September.
However, the US$40 increase is payable in the local ZiG currency, not USD.
Speaking at the Employers’ Confederation of Zimbabwe 42nd Annual Congress in Victoria Falls, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister July Moyo said the government’s wage bill will not exceed 12% of the GDP. Said Moyo (via <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200033730/huge-salary-hike-spells-trouble-govt">NewsDay</a>):
<blockquote>
So how do we then make sure that our civil servants are paid adequately? Any country which pays its workers more than 12% of GDP, that economy is in trouble.
So we have adhered to it, we have agreed to it. So we say to the Finance minister, go and calculate, sometime, maybe, you can go a little bit beyond that, but let us remain within the 12% of GDP.
As a government, unlike you, who can measure your productivity in another way? It is who we measure our productivity by, the GDP.
So the productivity of all of the government, parliament, and judiciary everybody, is to save the economy. And we measure our productivity by the growth of GDP.
But if the GDP is growing, that means every year our workers will also have higher salaries. It’s the same as your turnover.
When your turnover is growing, and you say you are going to pay one-third of your turnover to your workers, that means every year they will have something to take home.
</blockquote>
Unions representing teachers, such as the Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) and the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ), have criticised the pay rise, calling it insignificant and ineffective in improving their members’ buying power.
PTUZ president Takavafira Zhou argued that the combined US dollars and ZiG salary after September 2024 is still below the market value of their previous monthly salaries before the recent devaluation of the ZiG currency.
He also said the government is unilaterally conducting a job evaluation to impose on civil servants.
ARTUZ secretary-general Robson Chere added that their members have rejected the small increment, which he claims resulted from an illegal joint negotiating platform. Said Chere:
<blockquote>
The current so-called outcome of the US$40 increment is a nullity. The exchange rate will wipe away the so-called increment as the bank rate is deliberately fixed below the real market rate.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government will adjust civil servant salaries based on economic growth, with salaries staying at 12% of the GDP. Lower-paid civil servants got a raise backdated to September, but it's in local ZiG currency, not USD. Unions are unhappy with the increase, saying it's not enough to boost buying power, and the government is imposing job evaluations on them. They claim the raise will be negated due to the fixed exchange rate. The government defends the move, saying it's necessary to keep the economy stable.

Government To Base Future Civil Servant Salary Adjustments On Economic Growth

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has criticised the government for misleading civil servants into believing they would receive a salary increase in United States dollars.
On Tuesday, 15 October, the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) announced that the government had increased civil servants’ salaries by US$40, backdated to September.
However, this increase will be paid in ZiG at the prevailing official exchange rate, not in US dollars.
ARTUZ said some civil servants are now deeper in debt after borrowing money in anticipation of a salary increase in USD. ARTUZ said:
<blockquote>
The Sunday Mail and the whole State propaganda machinery were in overdrive spreading disinformation on some fake USD increment.
The whole machinery is evil and has little regard for hard-working Civil servants. Some got into more debt anticipating an increment. 100% USD salaries now!
</blockquote>
Last week, The Sunday Mail reported that the government plans to award civil servants with a salary increase in USD, along with an annual bonus this year.
The publication cited Minister of Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare July Moyo, who stated:
<blockquote>
The Government has allocated a significant amount in US dollars to ensure that salary adjustments benefit all civil servants.
However, under the President’s directive, we have prioritised the upliftment of lower-income employees to bridge the wage gap.
While we understand that top-level officials can manage with their current salaries, it is imperative that we provide adequate support to those at the bottom of the ladder…
On the bonus, we will make an announcement after consulting with Treasury, but the bonus will certainly come.
</blockquote>
However, yesterday, the union representing civil servants, that is ZCPSTU, said government workers will get a salary increment of US$40 payable in local currency at the prevailing official exchange rate. It said:
<blockquote>
In the end, the employer committed to pay as follows; Review of salary by US$40 across the board for the grades of Deputy Director and below with effect from September 1, 2024.
Resultantly, the lowest Grade B1 will move from a salary of US$324 to US$364 effective 1st of September 2024…
The initial offer of US$31 million converted to local currency was dismissed as inadequate by the workers on two occasions.
The employer increased the envelope to US$41 million but insisted that it will be paid in local currency at the prevailing bank rate with effect from 1 September 2024.
The employer cited the drought, lower than expected United States Dollar revenue inflows and the government’s policy shift towards de-dollarization as reasons for the inability to pay more than the tabled offer.
Also cited was the very low ZiG pay for sections of the civil service whose statutory deductions are in limbo and that the 2024 Mid-term budget has no provision for a salary adjustment.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The teachers' union in Zimbabwe is upset because the government promised a salary increase in US dollars but will actually pay it in local currency. Some teachers borrowed money expecting a USD increase and are now in more debt. The government says they can't pay in USD because of low revenue and policy changes. Civil servants will get a $40 increase in salaries, but it will be in local currency. The government also plans to give a bonus, but details are still being worked out. Teachers are not happy with the situation.

What We Got Is Not A Real Salary Increase - Teachers

Government has said civil servants will get a USD salary raise and a annual bonus this year. The information was revealed in the state-controlled weekly publication, The Sunday Mail, today.
<a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/usd-salary-rise-bonus-for-civil-servants-workers-welcome-move">According to the article</a>, the salary increase will prioritise lower-income civil servants, and that the money has already been set aside by treasury.
The purpose of the raise is said to be to “to mitigate the impact of the recent devaluation of Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) against the US dollar.”
The government recently revised the rate of the Zig against the USD from 1:14 to 1:24.
The article quotes Minister of Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare July Moyo:
<blockquote>
The Government has allocated a significant amount in US dollars to ensure that salary adjustments benefit all civil servants. However, under the President’s directive, we have prioritised the upliftment of lower-income employees to bridge the wage gap.
While we understand that top-level officials can manage with their current salaries, it is imperative that we provide adequate support to those at the bottom of the ladder…
On the bonus, we will make an announcement after consulting with Treasury, but the bonus will certainly come.
</blockquote>
Last week, Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2024/10/03/civil-servants-to-get-salary-increase/">indicated government was reviewing civil servants’ salaries.</a>
The lowest civil servant earns a total of US $375, which comprises a basic salary of $218, transport allowance of US $66 and housing allowances of US $91.

Civil servants will get more money in their salaries and a bonus this year. The government wants to help lower-income workers the most. This is to help with the change in the value of Zimbabwe Gold compared to the US dollar. The government has already put money aside for this. The bonus will be announced later but it will happen. The Minister of Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare said they want to help all civil servants, especially the ones who earn less.

Civil Servants to get USD Salary Increase and Bonus

Minister of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion, Mthuli Ncube, has said civil servants will soon receive a salary increase to help mitigate the effects of a recent decision by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) to devalue the ZiG by over 40%.
In interviews with journalists following President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) to parliament on Wednesday, October 2, Ncube explained that the devaluation was intended to close the gap between the official and parallel market values of the local currency.
He acknowledged that the decline in the ZiG has affected salaries, hence the need to restore their purchasing power. However, Ncube said salaries for civil servants will not be fully restored. He said:
<blockquote>
Putting in place a flexible exchange rate or devaluation does have an impact immediately on incomes, on prices.
And for us as a government, we will make some adjustments, naturally, to civil service salaries to make sure that the purchasing power of the salaries is somewhat restored.
Maybe not in full, but because someone wants to get in there. So, there is bound to be pain, there’s bound to be impact, and that’s what happens with any policy.
Any policy does have negative impacts and that’s what will happen. But we will make some adjustments to make sure that those who are losers can be compensated somewhat.
It won’t be everybody who will be looked after, but we’ll do our best.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, about a fortnight ago, civil servants’ representatives rejected a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) offer presented by the government during a National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC) meeting.
The Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) said that they had decided to escalate the matter to higher authorities for further engagement.
This means that even if civil servants receive a salary increase now, which Ncube acknowledged will not bring their salaries back to pre-ZiG devaluation levels, they will still be worse off and unlikely to feel satisfied.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government is going to increase the salaries of civil servants in Zimbabwe because the value of the local currency has decreased a lot. This decrease is causing problems for people who work for the government. The Finance Minister said that even though the salaries will be increased, they won't go back to what they were before. This means that the civil servants may still not be happy with their pay. The union for civil servants rejected an offer from the government, so the issue is still not solved.

Civil Servants To Get Salary Increase

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has urged the government to urgently review civil servants’ salaries in light of the official devaluation of the Zimbabwe Gold currency (ZiG) by over 40% against the US dollar.
On Friday, September 27, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) adjusted the ZiG exchange rate from 14.1 ZiG per dollar to 24.3 ZiG per dollar.
In response to this development, ARTUZ said the ZiG component of public sector salaries should be automatically adjusted to reflect the devaluation, without requiring additional worker demands. ARTUZ said:
<blockquote>
Mthuli Ncube and the employing authorities in government should not wait to be told that since ZIG has officially been devalued by 44% to the USD, the ZIG component of salaries should be automatically adjusted.
The success and stability of this Republic is on the shoulders of the workers. The government as the biggest employer should lead the way, prioritising the welfare of the workers.
</blockquote>
Businessman Kuda Musasiwa criticised the government for paying civil servants at the ZiG13.5 exchange rate, only to subsequently devalue the ZiG to 25. He described this action as “not only immoral but criminal.”
The Mayor of Bulawayo, David Coltart, who is a long-time opposition politician, said the the “timing of the devaluation seems cynically calculated.” He posted on X:
<blockquote>
Spare a thought for civil servants – paid just a few days ago and today the value of what is left in their bank accounts is almost slashed in half. The timing of the devaluation seems cynically calculated.
So much for this being “Zimbabwe Gold” – ZIG – when its value is going in the opposite direction to the actual gold price.
In any democracy, such catastrophic policy failure would end a government’s term of office. But we aren’t a democracy so those responsible continue with impunity.
</blockquote>
The devaluation of the ZiG will result in local consumers experiencing diminished purchasing power, which may lead to a decline in living standards.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The teachers in Zimbabwe want the government to give them more money because the value of their currency has gone down by over 40%. This means they can't buy as much with their salary as before. The teachers say the government should automatically adjust their salaries to make up for the drop in currency value. A businessman also criticized the government for paying the teachers less than what the currency is actually worth. This means people might have less money to buy things they need, which will make life harder for them.

Teachers Demand Urgent Pay Rise After Dramatic ZiG Fall

Civil servants’ representatives have rejected a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) offer presented by the government during a National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC) meeting on Friday, September 20.
The Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) initially met with government officials on September 11, where the government proposed an offer that was subsequently rejected by civil servants.
It was agreed that the government negotiators would consult their principals and report back at the next NJNC meeting.
However, when the negotiating team returned on Friday, they brought back the same offer that had already been declined, resulting in a deadlock in the discussions.
In a statement issued on September 20, ZCPSTU said that they have decided to escalate the matter to higher authorities for further engagement.
However, ZCPSTU did not disclose any details regarding the government’s offer, including the amount and whether it was in Zimbabwean dollars (ZiG) or US dollars (USD).
Currently, most civil servants earn just over US$300 before deductions, along with approximately ZiG$2,000.
Below is the statement from ZCPSTU:
<blockquote>
The National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC) met on the 20th of September 2024 at Kaguvi building, Harare to discuss on the feedback of the consultations made by the Government team of negotiators from their principals.
On the previous meeting which was held on the 11th of September 2024, the Government had brought an offer which we did not accept.
In today’s meeting, the Government maintained its intial offer.
In light of the above, ZCPSTU would want to inform its stakeholders that it has not accepted the offer and urged the Government to improve the envelope.
It has also made a resolution to take the matter with higher offices for further engagement.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has criticised ZCPSTU for allegedly negotiating in bad faith and betraying the interests of civil servants.ARTUZ said:
<blockquote>
NJNC Salary negotiations are a bedroom affair between the government and a bunch of handpicked love birds of the ruling elites.
They can spend months talking to each other without consulting those they pretend to represent and without giving any concrete feedback.
We continue to call for the establishment of a genuine Collective Bargaining Council in line with s 203 (1) (b) read with s 65 (5) of the constitution.
Civil servants have a right to a fair wage birthed from genuine Collective Bargaining.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Civil servants rejected the government's offer of a pay increase. The offer was first rejected on September 11, but the government brought back the same offer on September 20. This led to a deadlock in the talks. The union representing civil servants is now taking the matter to higher authorities for more discussions. Another teachers' union criticized the civil servants' union for not representing their interests properly. They called for fair negotiations for a better salary for civil servants.

Civil Servants Reject Government's Salary Adjustment Offer

Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU), the umbrella union for civil servants, met with government representatives on September 11 under the National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC).
The NJNC serves as a collaborative platform that brings together government officials and public sector unions, providing a forum to explore viable solutions to address the concerns of state workers.
In a statement issued the day after the meeting, the ZCPSTU announced that the parties would reconvene this week. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The NJNC reconvened yesterday to discuss the cost of living (COLA) for civil servants. After lengthy deliberations on the envelope tabled by the employer, the parties agreed to adjourn to give time for further consultation.
The NJNC agreed to meet in the coming week to receive feedback on the consultations and for further deliberations.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe’s civil servants receive a basic salary of US$320, supplemented by less than ZWG$2,000.
Over the years, civil servants have been demanding a return to their pre-October 2018 salary of US$540, and more recently, their demands have increased to US$840.
However, the government has consistently maintained that it cannot meet these salary demands, implementing only marginal increments that still fall significantly short of covering the basic needs of civil servants.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Civil servants in Zimbabwe met with the government to talk about their pay. The government and the unions will meet again to discuss COLA for civil servants. Civil servants get a low salary and want it increased to meet their basic needs. The government says it can't meet the demands for higher salaries. The two sides will keep talking to try to find a solution. The workers are hoping for better pay to cover their expenses. The process is ongoing, and both sides are trying to find a fair agreement.

COLA: Government, Civil Servants Set To Meet Again

Zimbabwe’s civil servants are longing for the salaries they earned during the Government of National Unity (GNU) era when they took home monthly paychecks of US$540.
Mbekezeli Dube, a 36-year-old Zimbabwe Prison and Correctional Service (ZPCS) officer (not his real name), lamented that the so-called “Second Republic” under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration, which was ushered in by the November 2017 military coup, has reduced civil servants to a state of destitution.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200029246/civil-servants-long-for-gnu-days-as-govt-workers-face-new-realities">NewsDay</a>, Dube who was 24 years old when he joined the ZPCS, said during the GNU era, civil servants lived a comfortable life but now they are struggling to make ends meet. He said:
<blockquote>
The second republic has made us earn US$35 a month. Civil servants are struggling, personally I no longer love myself…
I joined the ZPCS not because I wanted to, but because I realised that a school dropout was making a significant living out of the US$540 that they earned.
During the Government of National Unity [GNU], ordinary folks managed to build their own houses and buy their first cars.
Government workers were earning around US$500 and retiring civil servants took not less than US$20 000 as lump sum money and minimum monthly pensions of around US$300.
But now [Finance Minister] Mthuli Ncube has reduced us to destitute. Gender-based violence will never stop when a father, who is a civil servant, gets a US$190 monthly salary to pay fees, buy food and pay rent, among other expenses.
On retirement after 40 years of service, they are given a US$300 lump sum pension contribution. Mthuli Ncube gives us his lunch money as a pension. Every month, we are backdated with deductions.
</blockquote>
In an interview with NewsDay, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister July Moyo stated that the government can only afford to pay civil servants what it is currently capable of. Said Moyo:
<blockquote>
The government can only give what it can afford as the GDP [gross domestic product] of this country tells us what we can pay the civil servant.
The civil servants in this country are [in the] middle income [bracket], I know the salaries and wages of the civil servants.
Civil servants are at a higher level as compared to the private sector and earn more than those in the private sector.
There is a national joint negotiating council which negotiates for many things apart from salaries. They have a timetable for how they negotiate.
Just like the turnover of any company can tell you what they can afford to pay workers.
</blockquote>
However, Tendai Biti, who served as Finance Minister during the GNU era, expressed sympathy for the plight of civil servants.
Biti blamed the current Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Permanent Secretary, George Guvamatanga, for the civil servants’ dire situation. He said:
<blockquote>
I am sorry to say this, civil servants may wish to go back to US$540 salaries, but with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government, it is impossible. A mosquito will never kill malaria, never.
</blockquote>
A general duty soldier in the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA), Mengezi Dliwayo (not his real name), told NewsDay that the salary he is currently earning is not what he had signed up for. He said:
<blockquote>
Awa ndiwo ma funnies [These are jokes]. I get paid ZiG$1 300 and US$190 as a monthly salary. I have to pay rent and other bills.
This is why we have many ex-soldiers who quit and join armed robbers. The biggest problem is we cannot speak out, especially the uniformed forces like police, ZPCS and army. I honestly miss that US$540 salary which we used to get.
</blockquote>
In an interview with NewsDay, former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa said that the economic challenges facing civil servants and all other Zimbabwean citizens stemmed from the ongoing political crisis in the country. Said Chamisa:
<blockquote>
The broken politics in this country breaks everything and the broken economy is a product of broken politics.
It does not help to run away from the choice of the people, a political settlement is needed. Look at what happened in South Africa, they respected the choices of the voters who expressed the need for leaders to join hands and work together.
</blockquote>
The GNU was a power-sharing arrangement that was formed on February 13, 2009, and lasted until July 2013.
The parties that comprised the GNU were ZANU-PF, then led by the late Robert Mugabe who served as the President, MDC-T led by the late Morgan Tsvangirai who held the position of Prime Minister, and the MDC led by Arthur Mutambara who was the Deputy Prime Minister.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe's Civil Servants Yearn For Return To GNU Era Salaries

The National Social Security Authority (NSSA) acting general manager, Charles Shava, said that the deduction of pension contributions from civil servants’ US dollar salary component will continue over the next two months.
This deduction, which was implemented retroactively from January 2024, began in June under the direction of the Public Service Commission.
Speaking during a session of the IPEC/NSSA Journalists Mentorship Programme for 2024 last week, Shava said (via <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/business/article/200029101/backdated-pension-deductions-in-civil-servants-us-salaries-to-continue">NewsDay</a>):
<blockquote>
The law says contributions to NSSA will be based on the currency of income so if an organisation is paying its employees in US dollars their contribution to NSSA will be in US dollars. If it is paying in ZWG, their contributions will be in ZWG.
The particular issue of civil servants emanated from the fact that with effect from January this year, the US$300 was converted to a salary and by that operation their contribution to NSSA, because it became salary, had to be contributed to US$.
So, as NSSA, we wrote to the Public Service Commission informing them of the need to align with the SI [statutory instrument] which was passed by the government which the Public Service ministry confirmed with another SI to make sure that those deductions are done properly in US$ as per the law.
</blockquote>
The PSC opted to spread out the pension contribution deductions over a two-month period to minimize the financial impact on civil servants, as the deductions were applied retroactively from January 2024. Said Shava:
<blockquote>
That is an issue between the Public Service Commission and employees in government. So, as NSSA, we really don’t have anything that we could do or not do except just to enforce the law by making sure that contributions from the public service are done in the correct currency as per the law.
This is from January 2024. This does not affect the private sector. I think their systems are working well. Those that are paying in ZWG are paying and those who are paying in ZWG are paying so we don’t have problems with the private sector. This is only for the public service.
</blockquote>
In June, civil servants, such as teachers took home net salaries of about US$270 down from US$320 following the deductions.
Trade unions representing public service workers condemned the move by the Government to deduct their USD salaries for their pension contributions, describing it as “fraudulent”.
Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) secretary-general Raymond Majongwe wrote to the PSC challenging the decision and said they were alarmed “by such callous unilateralism intended to further impoverish civil servants.”
NSSA has a long history of shortchanging pensioners amid allegations of corruption and poor management at the Authority.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

NSSA To Continue Backdated Pension Deductions From Civil Servants' US Dollar Salaries

The National Social Security Authority (NSSA) has reportedly started making deductions from the foreign currency component of civil servants’ salaries despite government employees already facing severe financial strain due to low wages.
Currently, civil servants, such as teachers are taking home net salaries of about US$270 down from US$320 following the move by the government to deduct pension contributions from their USD salaries.
A nurse who spoke to <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/unfortunate-and-unfair-teachers-say-as-nssa-goes-after-civil-servants-peanuts-us-salaries/">NewZimbabwe.com</a> on condition of anonymity said they suspect that NSSA has already started the deductions this June. Said the nurse:
<blockquote>
I haven’t seen my payslip yet but I was shocked to note that my usual salary was US$30 less when I visited the bank last Friday.
</blockquote>
Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) president Takavafira Zhou confirmed that the deductions will be backdated to January 2024. He said:
<blockquote>
Yes, NSSA will be deducting the US$ salaries backdated to January 2024. This is unfortunate and ill-conceived. The deductions are unlawful and a product of one-armed banditry nature of unilateralism from the government.
They are not a product of engagement with unions and therefore palpably unjust and a monument of Zimbabwean justice.
As PTUZ, we call for the respect of tenets of fair labour practice and disputation and reject impositions by the employer.
</blockquote>
Civil servants have criticised the government for making more deducting on their paltry earnings instead of restoring their salaries to the pre-October 2018 level of US$540.
PTUZ Secretary General Raymond Manjongwe, on June 5, 2024, wrote a letter to the Public Service Commission protesting the deductions. He said:
<blockquote>
We also want to reiterate that the US$ NSSA deductions are a clear fraud of the highest order. How can NSSA be allowed to unilaterally deduct civil servants’ salaries yet the same government is ignoring calls for reasonable US$ salary adjustments?
</blockquote>
NSSA has a long history of shortchanging pensioners amid allegations of corruption and poor management at the Authority.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Goes After Civil Servants' Earnings, Restoration Of US$540 Salaries Now A Distant Dream

Trade unions representing public service workers have condemned the move by the Government to deduct their USD salaries for their pension contributions, reported <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200027879/civil-servants-govt-clash-over-us-deductions">NewsDay</a>.
This comes after Public Service Commission (PSC) Secretary Tsitsi Rosemary Choruma-Dozwa on 28 May wrote a circular stating that all public service workers would be required to pay their pension contributions in foreign currency, starting this year.
Civil servants earn salaries both in United States dollars and ZiG and the new directive states that government workers would use the same ratio in making their contributions.
However, unions representing government workers have described the move as “fraudulent”.
Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) secretary-general Raymond Majongwe has since written to the PSC challenging the decision to implement US dollar deductions.
Majongwe said they were alarmed “by such callous unilateralism intended to further impoverish civil servants.” He added:
<blockquote>
The US$ National Social Security Authority deductions must be commensurate with the US$ salary adjustments, and in any case, the proposed deductions and backdating are not a product of consultation with stakeholders such as unions representing the civil servants.
The US$ NSSA deductions must succeed in meaningful US$ salary adjustments which we feel are long overdue, and the PSC and government must respect its workers and desist from approaches that are tantamount to colonial master and servant relationship.
</blockquote>
Speaking to NewsDay, Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe president Obert Masaraure said:
<blockquote>
The US$ deduction is going to severely affect workers, the majority of who earn depressed salaries.
We continue to demand a US$1 260 salary for teachers so that they will have enough to cater for the basics even after paying these subscriptions.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Teachers Association (ZIMTA) spokesperson Goodwill Taderera said:
<blockquote>
What is critical is that they have to communicate before a deduction is made. We strongly advise that in future our employer should make a communication first so that we can prepare before a deduction is made.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) vice-president Valentine Chikosi:
<blockquote>
Workers are faced with a precarious situation where their salaries are predominantly in ZiG yet their expenses are predominantly in United States dollars.
People need foreign currency to cover rent, transport, fuel, medical expenses and school fees among other statutory obligations.
Workers are left with no option but to source the much-needed US dollars from the black market risking being arrested.
</blockquote>
Chikosi said the ZIG had so far failed to improve the welfare of workers, adding that there was an urgent need to address the “peanuts” salaries earned by most workers.
Meanwhile, the NSSA acting General Manager, Charles Shava, stated USD contributions by public service workers “would go a long way in sustaining the viability of the NSSA scheme.”
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Faces Backlash For Deducting Civil Servants’ USD Salaries For Pension Contributions

The government has declared that all public service workers who earn in foreign currency would be required to pay their pension contributions in the same currency, starting this year.
Civil servants earn salaries both in United States dollars and ZiG and the new directive states that government workers would use the same ratio in making their contributions.
In a circular dated 28 May 2024, PSC Secretary Tsitsi Rosemary Choruma-Dozwa stated that the USD National Social Security Authority (NSSA) contribution would be implemented following the conversion of USD COVID-19 and cushioning allowances to pensionable emoluments with effect from 1 January 2024. She wrote:
<blockquote>
Please be advised that the Treasury has concurred with implementing the provisions of Statutory Instrument (SI) 169/2021 on the public sector employees with effect from 01 January 2024, Section 8(b)(4) provides that, “Any person in Zimbabwe who earns remuneration in a currency other than that of Zimbabwe shall be required to pay his/her contributions in foreign currency and in cases where individuals earn remuneration in a combination of foreign currency and Zimbabwean Dollars, he or she shall pay contribution the same currency ratio.”
Please note that the outstanding contributions should be staggered in three months, commencing in 2024. 
</blockquote>
As reported by <a href="https://cite.org.zw/public-service-workers-to-pay-pension-in-foreign-currency/">CITE</a>, Choruma-Dozwa also wrote to the government’s Paymaster advising of the same instruction.
This came after NSSA Acting General Manager, Charles Shava wrote to the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare on 24 January 2024, requesting assistance to notify the PSC that following the conversion of the USD COVID-19 Allowance for public service employees into a pensionable salary, NSSA advised on the computation of NSSA contribution as guided by Section 8(b) of SI 169 of 2021.
The NSSA acting General Manager stated that this request “would go a long way in sustaining the viability of the NSSA scheme.”
This prompted Simon Masanga, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare, along with George Guvamatanga, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, to write to the secretary of the PSC, requesting the same order. Reads the letter in part:
<blockquote>
Following the conversion of the US$ COVID-19 and US$ cushioning allowances for Public Service employees into a pensionable salary, the NSSA has advised that the computation of NSSA contributions is guided by Section 8(b) of SI 169 of 2021.
Given this development, NSSA is requesting the commission to implement the provision of SI 169 of 2021 with effect from 1 January 2024 to enable the viability of the NSSA schemes.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, unions representing public service workers have criticised the move, saying it will further impoverish them.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Civil Servants To Pay Pension Contributions In Foreign Currency

Six Premier Service Medical Aid Society (PSMAS) managers and thirty-eight doctors were arrested for corruption in 2023, a Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) official has said.
The doctors were arrested for allegedly overdrawing money from PSMAS using wrong tariff codes to steal funds from the medical aid scheme.
At the time, the Medical and Dental PrivatePractitioners of Zimbabwe Association (MDPPZA) described the “blitz” that netted the doctors as a “witch hunt” on service providers who had stood by PSMAS when others were rejecting their cardholders.
Speaking at an inter-agency breakfast meeting hosted by Transparency International Zimbabwe (TIZ) on Wednesday ZACC commissioner Gabriel Chaibva revealed that Zimbabwe scored a low 24 out of 100 on the 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index. He said(via <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/six-psmas-managers-38-doctors-arrested-in-anti-corruption-blitz/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>):
<blockquote>
This rating is a sobering portrayal of corruption levels in the country, it is important for us to critically examine the corruption ecosystem and exert pressure on the developed world to desist from encouraging corruption in developing worlds by allowing the corrupt to stash the proceeds of corruption in their countries.
Through inter-agency collaboration, we need to retrieve all the funds and assets hidden in foreign lands.
In the past year, the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) conducted joint investigations into Premier Service Medical Aid Society (PSMAS) corruption.
This collaboration led to the arrest of six members of the executive management and 38 doctors. This case highlights the power of coordinated action in addressing corruption at all levels.
</blockquote>
Chaibva said that ZACC, in collaboration with the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), recovered 250 vehicles imported through abuse of the Civil Servants Motor Vehicle Rebate Scheme. He said:
<blockquote>
Following a report from the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development about the rampant abuse of the scheme, ZACC and the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) jointly investigated the Civil Servants Motor Vehicle Rebate Scheme. Although the investigation is ongoing, we have already recovered over 250 vehicles.
</blockquote>
The Civil Servants Motor Vehicle Rebate Scheme was introduced by the government in 2019 as an incentive for civil servants with 10 or more years of service to import motor vehicles duty-free.
However, authorities say some civil servants were importing cars for other people for a fee.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

6 PSMAS Managers, 38 Doctors Arrested For Corruption In 2023

Teachers claim that the government is provoking a confrontation with its employees by slashing civil servants’ May salaries.
According to reports, teachers and other government workers experienced a substantial reduction in earnings this month compared to April.
As an example, individuals who received approximately ZiG2,000 in April now receive around ZiG1,600 this month, and this decrease is unrelated to deductions by medical aid providers or funeral services.
The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) issued a warning that teachers are upset about this situation and intend to take action. ARTUZ said:
<blockquote>
Civil servants are angry! The regime has slashed the already circumcised incomes of Civil Servants. They think we are now weak and demobilised. Soon they will know that they only co-opted the elites, and the base is agitated. We have instructions from the Civil Service to act! We will oblige!
</blockquote>
n Monday, 13 May, launched a week-long campaign dubbed #MyFairWage which seeks to justify teachers’ demand for US$1 260 salaries.
The union stated this week (May 13-19) that the focal point of their campaign is the request for US$180 comprehensive healthcare insurance, as part of the overall basket of a US$1,260 monthly income.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Slashes Civil Servants' Salaries

The Zimbabwe Teachers Association (ZIMTA), has demanded teachers’ right to collective bargaining under the National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC).
The NJNC serves as a platform where the government and unions representing civil servants engage in negotiations with the government related to civil servants’ salaries, benefits, and working conditions.
In a statement issued this Wednesday, 08 May 2023, ZIMTA president Akuneni Maphosa said teachers are disheartened by the government’s reluctance to convene the NJNC. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
As schools open for the second term of 2024, this week, the teaching fraternity, which encompasses teachers, education directors and some lecturers has plunged deeper into the turmoil of struggling to survive with insufficient salaries, a situation which is constantly undermining the quality of education delivery, mostly in the public education system.
Dissatisfied members of the teaching fraternity are sadly trickling back to their workstations under difficult and unforeseen circumstances as the employer has failed to respond to the calls for meetings to discuss salary increases, during the month of April 2024, which should mark the first quarter negotiations of the NJNC meeting which has been the norm over the years.
ZIMTA in its representation of the various structures within the teaching fraternity has made various attempts to draw the employer to the discussion table with no success. Because of this attitude from the employer, members of the teaching fraternity believe that their Right to Collective Bargaining under the NJNC is being infringed upon. We demand to have our RIGHT restored back to us.
As civil servants in the teaching fraternity, we are deeply dissatisfied with the way the employer is failing to set up the rightful mandatory meetings for the workers to further discuss the way forward and increase levels of salaries and allowances for Teachers, this process is long overdue.
As a loyal workforce working under the Public Service Minister, we believe that we have a right to present our grievances, such as the need to have a better salary, therefore we publicly demand that the NJNC must convene as soon as possible.
Because of the current low incomes obtaining in the teaching fraternity, educators are increasingly finding it unsustainable to deliver and facilitate a conducive environment for enabling quality teaching and learning.
The achievement of the Sustainable Development Goal number 4, which the Zimbabwean Government is signatory to, will only be achieved on condition that quality public education is well funded and that teachers who are the key facilitators, are motivated and well remunerated through the releasing and payment of improved salaries.
Teachers’ morale matters, yet dissatisfaction caused by poor salaries continues to grow almost monthly as prices of goods and services rise but the salaries of educators are almost on a downward fall. This mismatch is huge.
The issue of awkward grading systems between junior and senior grades is a cause for concern amongst members of the education fraternity and we hereby make an urgent call for the employer to address it alongside the awarding of new salaries for educators.
Finally, we call on the employer to provide a meeting date for a salary review for educators as continued infringements on their right to negotiate for better salaries may have dire consequences and undesirable outcomes that affect Zimbabwe’s delivery of quality public education for all. Access to quality public education is a Right of Every Zimbabwean Citizen.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZIMTA Demands Teachers' Right To Negotiate For Salary Increments

Civil servants have accused President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government of having zero interest in fulfilling the promises it made to its workers.
Government employees have seen their earnings fall since the November 2017 military coup that initially brought Mnangagwa to power after the then-president, Robert Mugabe was forced to resign.
Civil servants currently earn about US$320, before taxes and bank charges, in addition to around ZiG2 000, per month.
Government chief negotiator in the salary negotiations Nobert Machinjike told <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200026297/eds-unfulfilled-promises-haunt-civil-servants">NewsDay</a> that the employer would continue engaging workers to improve their earnings and non-monetary benefits. He said:
<blockquote>
We have all committed to continuous engagement with the workers and I am happy that we have come up with a hardened remuneration framework for the earnings.
It is also important that we agree with the workers that our remuneration framework is also competitive in the region but we are working together to identify key issues that will see the government employees getting satisfactory earnings.
</blockquote>
However, David Dzatsunga, the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU), formerly Civil Service Apex Council, on Monday told NewsDay that the government has failed to honour its promises. Said Dzatsunga:
<blockquote>
We have seen that there is no interest by the government in addressing our issues. We have heard that the government wants to install solar panels for civil servants at their homes in 2022 but that never happened.
There is also an issue of hierarchy, those civil servants at a lower rank have never benefited at all. Then there is this issue of housing where we think the government can provide land or a facility that can allow civil servants to have their own houses. But this also has not happened.
</blockquote>
Medical and Dental Private Practitioners Association of Zimbabwe president Johannes Marisa said:
<blockquote>
There is poor infrastructure and we implore the government to improve the conditions of health workers. Health workers do not have proper accommodation or decent means of transport; they need vehicles…
We were supposed to have gone on strike early this month because of our poor wages but we were later told by the Zimbabwe Nurses Association that the government has blocked the strike and we feel let down given the nature of our job. We think we should be getting fair salaries.
</blockquote>
Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe President Obert Masaraure said Mnangagwa’s government is worse than Rhodesia and Mugabe combined. Said Masaraure:
<blockquote>
The government of Zimbabwe under Emmerson Mnangagwa is worse than Rhodesia and Mugabe combined. The militarised government is deploying command tactics in handling labour disputes.
The Constitution in Section 65 provides for the right to a fair wage and the right to engage in job action. These rights can’t be withdrawn by some individuals who just have a five-year mandate.
</blockquote>
The Government has previously enforced a “no work, no pay” policy for civil servants who participate in demonstrations or stay-aways.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwean Civil Servants Disillusioned By Broken Promises

President Emmerson Mnangagwa stated that civil servants’ salaries will be adjusted to their satisfaction once the economy improves.
Since October 2018, civil servants have persistently advocated for the reinstatement of their salaries, initially aiming for up to US$540 for the lowest-paid worker and subsequently raising their demand to US$840.
However, during the main 2024 Independence Day celebrations at Murambinda B High School in Murambinda, Buhera District, Manicaland Province, President Mnangagwa asserted that civil servants’ salaries would align with the economy’s performance. He said:
<blockquote>
The welfare of our civil servants will continue to be reviewed in line with economic sustainability.
</blockquote>
The majority of civil servants get US$320 per month, before tax and extortionate bank charges, and part of the salary is paid in ZiG.
Mnangagwa’s remarks that the welfare of government employees would be assessed based on economic fundamentals will likely further dampen the spirit of civil servants who have been pushing for a review of their conditions of service since October 2018.
Earlier this week, the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions’ (ZCPTSU) Secretary General David Dzatsunga was quoted by  <a href="https://tellzim.com/zig-another-currency-crisis/">TellZim News</a>, as saying civil servants prefer the USD as acceptance of the ZiG would be based on its performance.
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) launched ZiG on 05 April to stabilise the volatile exchange rate.
While businesses rushed to reconfigure their system to adapt to the ZiG, one of the biggest concerns is whether it will create a parallel currency market — one of the biggest threats to exchange rate stability.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

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