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>

Pindula News

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

The Zimbabwe Teachers Association (ZIMTA), the country’s largest teachers’ union, has called on the government to promptly disburse teachers’ salaries and bonuses for November 2024.
This follows the government’s failure to pay the ZiG component of some teachers’ salaries, as well as 50% of their bonuses for the month, without providing any explanation.
While other civil servants and security service personnel received their salaries and bonuses starting from the 15th, many teachers experienced delays in receiving their payments, with some only receiving partial disbursements.
In a statement, ZIMTA said the government’s failure to pay some teachers their November salaries had caused the affected members financial strain. ZIMTA said:
<blockquote>
The omission has caused significant financial hardship and raised serious questions about the fairness, transparency and integrity of the employer’s commitment to honouring contractual obligations.
The ZiG component is a fundamental part of our agreed-upon remuneration package.
Its exclusion from the November 2024 payment constitutes a breach of the terms of employment and breach and an erosion of trust between employees and the employer.
</blockquote>
The union has demanded an explanation for the delayed salary payments to teachers and called for genuine dialogue regarding their welfare concerns. It said:
<blockquote>
While the omission might be explained in administrative and financial terms, the failure to pay what is rightfully ours feels like a devaluation of our efforts, morale and dignity as educators and public servants.
It signals a lack of recognition of the vital services we render to society.
</blockquote>
Over the past two weeks, teachers have expressed discontent over the non-payment of their salaries. However, the Public Service Commission (PSC) has yet to comment on the issue, at least publicly.
The permanent secretary of the Ministry of Finance, George Guvamatanga recently admitted that the government was broke, citing the 43% depreciation of the ZIG, saying this resulted “in a substantial mismatch between revenue inflows, collected in some cases, with a one-month lag and local currency expenditures that immediately adjusted to the new exchange rate, in the process severely constraining fiscal space for the last quarter of 2024.”
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe teachers are not getting their full salaries and bonuses from the government. Some teachers did not get their ZiG component and only got half of their bonuses. This has caused financial problems for many teachers. The union ZIMTA is demanding an explanation and dialogue with the government. Teachers feel undervalued and unappreciated for their hard work. The government blames financial issues for the delay in payments. Teachers are unhappy, but the Public Service Commission has not issued a statement yet. This situation has left teachers feeling worried and uncertain about their finances.

Teachers Left In Limbo As Government Fails To Pay Salaries and Bonuses

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

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

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

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

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>

Civil Servants' Salary Review Hinges On Economic Performance - Mnangagwa

Civil servants say they have no choice but to accept the newly-introduced Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency but said the government needs to build confidence amongst the citizens, especially on how the new currency is going to impact the payment of government services.
In an interview with <a href="https://tellzim.com/zig-another-currency-crisis/">TellZim News</a>, Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions’ (ZCPTSU) Secretary General David Dzatsunga said that they expect the government to educate them on its implications on taxes, duty, fuel, education, and health care among other critical issues. Said Dzatsunga:
<blockquote>
From the ZCPTSU perspective, the initiative to carry out currency reform was vitally necessary given the free fall of the ZWL. As for the ZiG, the jury is still out as to how it is going to impact the welfare of workers.
Having been introduced without much prior consultation, the authorities have to educate us on its implications on taxes, duty, fuel, education, and health care among others.
While we have no choice but to embrace it and strive to make it a success as workers and citizens alike, there is still a ton of confidence-building to be done so that citizens can truly believe we have found a panacea to our perennial currency problem.
</blockquote>
Dzatsunga also said civil servants prefer the USD as acceptance of the ZiG would be based on its performance. He said:
<blockquote>
As long as we have a basket of currencies workers still prefer the strongest of them. Much will depend on the performance of the ZiG and on whether we will not have to go to the parallel market to get value.
</blockquote>
Earlier this month, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) launched ZiG 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>

Civil Servants Have No Choice But To Embrace ZiG - Dzatsunga

Civil servants have pleaded with the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, July Moyo to convene an urgent National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC) meeting to address their demands for better salaries.
The NJNC is a platform that brings together government representatives and public sector unions aimed at addressing civil servants’ concerns.
In a letter addressed to Moyo, Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) acting president Goodwill Taderera said the continuous erosion of civil servants’ salaries has driven them deeper into poverty. He said:
<blockquote>
The situation is no longer sustainable, as many of these devoted public servants are struggling to meet even the most basic of needs due to the erosion of their salary values in the face of continuous economic pressures.
The noble calling of public service should neither be a silent promise of hardship nor a path to poverty, yet many civil service workers are now submerged in financial distress, finding it challenging to uphold their roles and provide for their families.
A motivated civil service is the backbone of efficient and effective public administration. Their welfare is directly correlated with the welfare of the nation.
</blockquote>
Over the past few years, civil servants have been demanding at least US$800 for the lowest-paid employee up from US$540 they used to earn pre-2018 when the economy was still dollarised.
Civil servants earn about US$250 in hard currency and less than US$100 in worthless RTGS currency.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Civil Servants Push For Urgent NJNC Meeting

The Government has released civil servants’ 2024 pay dates, with uniformed forces and the health sector set to get their first pay of the year on 12 January and teachers getting paid on 16 January.
In a circular, the Government said the rest of the civil servants and independent commissions will be paid on 19 January, while pensioners and grant-aided institutions will receive their dues on 23 January.
Below is the full schedule of the proposed pay dates:
<table style="font-weight: 400; width: 93.8744%; height: 465px;" width="605">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="101"> </td>
<td width="101">Army and Airforce of Zimbabwe</td>
<td width="101">Health, ZRP, ZPCS</td>
<td width="101">Education</td>
<td width="101">Rest of Service and Independent Commissions</td>
<td width="101">Pension and Grant-Aided Institution</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="101"> </td>
<td width="101"> </td>
<td width="101"> </td>
<td width="101"> </td>
<td width="101"> </td>
<td width="101"> </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="101">January</td>
<td width="101">12</td>
<td width="101">12</td>
<td width="101">16</td>
<td width="101">19</td>
<td width="101">23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="101">February</td>
<td width="101">13</td>
<td width="101">13</td>
<td width="101">16</td>
<td width="101">20</td>
<td width="101">23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="101">March</td>
<td width="101">15</td>
<td width="101">15</td>
<td width="101">19</td>
<td width="101">22</td>
<td width="101">26</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="101">April</td>
<td width="101">16</td>
<td width="101">16</td>
<td width="101">19</td>
<td width="101">23</td>
<td width="101">26</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="101">May</td>
<td width="101">14</td>
<td width="101">14</td>
<td width="101">17</td>
<td width="101">21</td>
<td width="101">24</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="101">June</td>
<td width="101">14</td>
<td width="101">14</td>
<td width="101">18</td>
<td width="101">21</td>
<td width="101">25</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="101">July</td>
<td width="101">16</td>
<td width="101">16</td>
<td width="101">19</td>
<td width="101">23</td>
<td width="101">26</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="101">August</td>
<td width="101">16</td>
<td width="101">16</td>
<td width="101">20</td>
<td width="101">23</td>
<td width="101">27</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="101">September</td>
<td width="101">13</td>
<td width="101">13</td>
<td width="101">17</td>
<td width="101">20</td>
<td width="101">24</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="101">October</td>
<td width="101">15</td>
<td width="101">15</td>
<td width="101">18</td>
<td width="101">22</td>
<td width="101">25</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="101">November</td>
<td width="101">15</td>
<td width="101">15</td>
<td width="101">19</td>
<td width="101">22</td>
<td width="101">26</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="101">December</td>
<td width="101">23</td>
<td width="101">13</td>
<td width="101">17</td>
<td width="101">20</td>
<td width="101">24</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
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More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Releases Civil Servants’ Pay Dates For 2024

Unions representing civil servants have dragged to High Court President Emmerson Mnangagwa, the Public Service Commission and other officials over the Government’s penchant for unilaterally reviewing public workers’ salaries, <a href="https://thenewshawks.com/civil-servants-drag-mnangagwa-to-court/">The NewsHawks</a> reported.
The civil servants argue that the current setup where the Public Service and Social Welfare Minister single-handedly decides how much they should earn is unconstitutional.
They are therefore seeking a ruling that declares the current set-up unconstitutional and a declaratory order that forces collective bargaining involving all civil servants’ unions on their salaries and allowances.
The first applicant in the latest court application is the Zimbabwe Teachers’ Union (ZIMTA) led by its chief executive officer Sifiso Ndlovu.
The other applicants are the Civil Service Employees’ Association (CSEA) representing the rest of public service workers with a membership of 2 600 civil servants; Progressive Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) Educators’ Union of Zimbabwe (EUZ) and the Amalgamated Rural Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ).
The Public Service Commission is cited as the first respondent and Mnangagwa as the second respondent. The application reads in part:
<blockquote>
The 2nd Respondent is the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe cited herein in the official capacity as the person responsible for the approval of salaries, allowances and other benefits of members of the Public Service as may be fixed by the 1st Respondent in terms of section 2003(4) of the Constitution.
</blockquote>
Other respondents cited are Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube, Public Service Minister Paul Mavima and Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi.
Attorney-General Prince Machaya is also cited as a respondent because he is the person who is the principal legal adviser to the government, responsible for drafting legislation on behalf of the government as well as representing the government in civil and constitutional matters.
The trade unions are being represented by the law firm of former Highfield MP and trade unionist Munyaradzi Gwisai, Matika and Gwisai Attorneys.
The matter under case number 8261/22 at the High Court of Zimbabwe, was set down to be heard on 21 September by Justice Lucy Mungwari.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Civil Servants Drag Mnangagwa To Court Over Salaries

The Government has shifted the pay dates for civil servants for the month of July 2023 to take into account a new salary increment.
Government representatives and members of the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU), formerly Apex Council, met on 7 July 2023 under the National Joint Negotiating Council to review civil servants’ conditions of service.
Addressing a post-Cabinet media briefing on Tuesday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said the Government had decided to increase civil servants’ forex and local currency salary components with immediate effect.
In a letter dated 13 July 2023, Finance and Economic Development Secretary George Guvamatanga advised the Chairman of Service Commissions Vincent Hungwe to shift civil servants’ pay dates. He wrote:
<blockquote>
As you may be aware, Government and Workers met on the 7th of July 2023, as part of the ongoing negotiations to improve the remuneration of public servants and pensions.
Taking account of the agreement by workers to the tabled proposal signed on the 11th of July 2023 and the Cabinet directive of the same day, that the processing of the offer be implemented, Treasury proposes to shift pay dates to allow the payroll to be rerun…
</blockquote>
Guvamatanga said the pay dates should be moved as follows: Army &amp; Air Force of Zimbabwe, from 14 July to 18 July; Health, ZRP, and ZPC also from 14 July to 18 July.
The pay date for public workers in the education sector has been moved from 17 July to 21 July.
However, for the Rest of Service and Independent Commissions, as well as Pensions and Grant Aided Institutions, the pay dates are unchanged, that is, 21 July and 25 July respectively.
Guvamatanga advised Hungwe to communicate the new pay dates to members of the civil service.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Civil Servants' July Salaries Delayed

An economist at Lupane State University (LSU) has urged the Government to explore the feasibility of paying a portion of civil servants’ salaries in gold-backed digital tokens and gold coins.
Speaking to the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/consider-paying-civil-servants-in-gold-coins/">Chronicle</a>, LSU business clinic development manager and economist George Nhepera said paying civil servants in gold coins and gold-backed digital currency reduces the dominance of the black market as the instruments are an alternative store of value other than the US dollar. Said Nhepera:
<blockquote>
To this end, they should be promoted in terms of their use for both people-to-people (P2P) transactions, people-to-business (P2B), and business-to-business (B2B).
Once this has been achieved with full market confidence, surely our Government can take a giant step to include a portion, say 50 percent of the civil servant salaries and benefits, be paid in these innovative instruments.
This strategy will help to curtail the black-market dominance in our market which is not helpful for the economic growth and poverty alleviation of our country let alone the achievement of our Vision 2030.
The future therefore belongs to innovators hence our monetary authorities are walking the talk in that space and they should be commended for supporting the Government in that respect.
</blockquote>
However, economic analyst Morris Mpala argued that paying civil servants in the gold-backed currency will reduce the demand for the Zimbabwe dollar. He said:
<blockquote>
This again defeats the purpose of encouraging the use of local currency by the populace. Noble as it might be in terms of liquidity management it shouldn’t be encouraged.
Let’s pay civil servants the right remuneration and let them have a choice in how they save their money and we concentrate on making the fundamentals right for everyone.
</blockquote>
On Tuesday, 11 July, the Government announced it has increased civil servants’ forex and local currency salary components with immediate effect.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Urged To Consider Paying Civil Servants In Gold Coins

The Government has increased civil servants’ forex and local currency salary components with immediate effect.
Addressing a post-Cabinet media briefing on Tuesday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said the Government will continue negotiations with civil servants’ representatives to improve its employees’ welfare. She said:
<blockquote>
Cabinet received a report on the status of negotiations held by the National Joint Negotiating Council on 7 July 2023 where it was agreed that the current offer of salary adjustments as proposed by Government be effected immediately. 
The parties further agreed that consultations and negotiations will continue guided by the spirit of continued improvement of the welfare of the Civil Service.
The decision by the parties takes cognisance of the need to afford the measures being implemented by the fiscal authorities to take effect.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU), formerly Apex Council, secretary-general David Dzatsunga acknowledged the salary increase when contacted by the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/government-to-adjust-civil-servants-forex-local-currency-salary-components/">Chronicle</a>, but declined to disclose the figures. He said:
<blockquote>
The figures are not what we proposed as workers, but we want to believe they will still bring some relief to the plight of the civil servants.
Unfortunately, I cannot reveal how much of an increase it is because we took a position as a panel not to make the figures public after realizing that once they are made public, it triggers a lot of things on the market.
The government put across their proposal which fell short of ours, but seeing the plight of our members, we felt it was better for that to be implemented as we continue with the negotiations.
</blockquote>
On Tuesday,  <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200013836/no-joy-for-civil-servants">NewsDay</a> cited sources who attended the NJNC meeting last Friday as saying the government had tabled an increment of US$50 hard cash and the equivalent of less than US$40 in local currency.
Civil servants have been advocating for a minimum of US$840 per month, a figure that went up from the initial bargaining amount of US$540.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Awards Civil Servants Salary Increment

The National Joint Negotiation Council (NJNC) is set to reconvene this week after the talks between the Government and civil servants held last week were inconclusive.
The Government and the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU), formerly Apex Council, met in Harare on Friday to discuss civil servants’ conditions of service but they failed to reach an agreement.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200013836/no-joy-for-civil-servants">NewsDay</a> on Monday, 10 July, ZCPSTU chairperson Cecilia Alexander said that the two parties have since agreed to meet again this week. She said:
<blockquote>
We had negotiations with the government on July 7th on Friday on the salary increment on both the US dollar and local currency components.
The meeting was not conclusive as the government is in consultation with its principal.
The government said they are going to consult further on the increment and we have since agreed to meet seven days from the day we met.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, NewsDay reported sources who attended the meeting as saying the government had tabled an increment of US$50 hard cash and the equivalent of less than US$40 in local currency.
Civil servants have been pushing the Government to restore their pre-October 2018 salaries of US$540 for the least-paid employee.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt, Civil Servants Salary Talks To Resume This Week

Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Paul Mavima said that Government officials and civil servants’ representatives will meet on Friday, 07 July to discuss conditions of service for civil servants.
In a statement, Mavima said the Government is committed to improving the welfare of its employees. He said:
<blockquote>
Following my announcement on 25 June 2023 that Government will effect a new remuneration package that includes an increment in the United States dollar component for civil servants to cushion them from the rising cost of living.
I am pleased to announce that Government and worker representatives will convene the National Joint Negotiating Council meeting on 07 July 2023 to discuss conditions of service for civil servants.
Government remains committed to improving the welfare of its employees and will continue to engage workers’ representatives in a bid to improve conditions of service for civil servants.
</blockquote>
Last Thursday, the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Union (ZCPSTU) wrote to Mavima requesting an urgent meeting to review civil servants’ salaries.
ZCPSTU, formerly the Civil Service Apex Council, is the union representing civil servants.
In the letter, ZCPSTU expressed disappointment over what it termed “unreasonable delays” by the Government to convene a salary review meeting.
ZCPSTU said recent media reports of Government officials promising salary negotiations had raised workers’ hopes, yet the promises have not been fulfilled. 
Mavima denied reports that the Government was in the process of drawing a package that will see employees earn a minimum of US$400 when allowances are factored in.
He insisted that the Government has not come up with any salary package for its workers.
Public sector workers currently earn US$250 in allowances, while their salary, which is in the fast-depreciating Zimbabwe dollars, is now about US$1
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt, Civil Servants Convene Salaries Meeting

The Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Union (ZCPSTU) on Thursday wrote to the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, requesting an urgent meeting to review civil servants’ salaries.
ZCPSTU, formerly the Civil Service Apex Council, is the union representing civil servants.
In the letter, ZCPSTU expressed disappointment over what it termed “unreasonable delays” by the Government to convene a salary review meeting. The union said:
<blockquote>
ZCPSTU writes to express our utmost disappointment at the unreasonable delay to convene NJNC (National Joint Negotiating Council) in spite of the dire necessity for it in the light of the huge deficit between prices and wages which has left workers subsisting on the USD250 allowance.
</blockquote>
ZCPSTU said recent media reports of Government officials promising salary negotiations had raised workers’ hopes, yet the promises have not been fulfilled. Reads the letter:
<blockquote>
This has created a legitimate expectation amongst the workers that a solution is near, making our work as unions a lot harder to explain the delay and why the employer would be comfortable with a situation where their workers have no salary to speak of, only an allowance.
Our legitimate request is that we want an NJNC now. We have taken the resolve to visit your office as a delegation of ZCPSTU this Friday 30 June at 1000hrs to help us appreciate the employer’s position regarding the situation of workers. We look forward to being hosted by you.
</blockquote>
Public sector workers currently earn US$250 in allowances, while their salary, which is in the fast-depreciating Zimbabwe dollars, is now about US$13.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Civil Servants Demand Urgent Salary Meeting With Government

Zimbabwe’s economic challenges, high inflation and the rising cost of living are driving civil servants and ordinary people to suicide.
The Amalgamated Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) last week said a deputy school head and mother of three, Miriam Manyarara, from Mwenezi District in the Masvingo Province took her own life due to “slave wages”.
Manyarara was reportedly found hanging in her house by colleagues after collecting her salary.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/africa/2023-06-26-zimbabwe-union-flags-mental-health-concern-due-to-economic-hardship/">TimesLive</a>, ARTUZ president Obert Masaraure said that teachers and civil servants are suffering in silence. He said:
<blockquote>
It is very unfortunate that we have a serious mental health crisis in Zimbabwe that is not being attended to.
We have a serious issue of underpayment which triggers mental health illness.
Unfortunately, we have teachers who are taking their lives, and police officers who are taking their lives.
They are underpaid and no one is paying attention to their urgent needs. People are suffering in silence and committing suicide.
As a union, we urge the government of the day to have policy interventions that can address the crisis and to pay teachers and other civil servants a living wage to enable them to deal with the challenges they face daily.
</blockquote>
Recently a police officer who had been taken to Parirenyatwa Hospital in Harare hanged himself after telling doctors his salary was too low to support his family.
There are 135 000 teachers employed in Zimbabwean public schools and they earn about ZWL$100 000 in Zimbabwe dollars and a monthly allowance of US$250.
Over the weekend, Public Service and Social Welfare Minister Paul Mavima said the Government is looking at giving public sector workers a new salary package to “cushion them from the rising cost of living”. He said:
<blockquote>
We are looking at all possibilities including effecting an increase of US dollars as well as a pay increase in local currency.
</blockquote>
Civil servants are demanding US$840 per month for the lowest-paid Government employee.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zim's Economic Challenges Driving Civil Servants To Suicide - Teachers' Union

The Government is “looking at all possibilities” of cushioning civil servants, with a salary increase in Zimbabwe dollars and an adjustment of the US dollar allowance “imminent”.
This was said by Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Paul Mavima in an interview with <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/more-usd-for-civil-servants-government-to-adjust-salary-tax-bands/">State media</a>. Mavima said:
<blockquote>
As has always been the case with the Government, our workers are important to us. As we speak, Treasury is working on the issue.
We are looking at all possibilities, including effecting an increase of the US dollar, as well as a pay increase in local currency. The consultations I am talking about do not take a long time.
Once we have our numbers from Treasury, we will immediately submit them to the President for his consideration and adjustment before the National Joint Negotiation Council convenes for negotiations.
A pay rise is imminent; public service workers need to be paid handsomely so that they do their job well.
We, as Government, have an obligation to meet the needs of our workers so that they will not engage in corruption and “kungwavha-ngwavha” (hustling).
We expect workers to discharge their duties diligently.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) president Cecilia Alexander said negotiations with Government for a pay rise will resume soon. She said:
<blockquote>
As you may be aware, our salaries, especially the local currency component, have been wiped away by inflation, and that alone calls for a salary increase.
However, what is on the ground is that both the US dollar component and the local component need adjustment.
The Government seems to be promising a good package that will be enough to cater for workers’ needs and they are also saying there is room for backdating the salaries.
</blockquote>
In April, the Government awarded its workers a 100 percent salary increment in Zimbabwe dollars, and increased their COVID-19 allowance from US$200 to US$250, except for health sector workers.
Teachers were also awarded an additional US$80 monthly teaching allowance payable in local currency at the prevailing exchange rate.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pay Rise For Civil Servants Imminent - Minister Mavima

The Zimbabwean government is planning to offer a new salary package to civil servants to help them cope with the increasing cost of living. 
The National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC), which represents both the government and workers’ representatives, is set to meet this week to discuss the issue.
The Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) leaders recently met with President Mnangagwa, who assured them that the government is committed to addressing their concerns. The Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister, Professor <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Paul_Mavima/">Paul Mavima</a>, stated that the new pay offer will be presented once internal consultations are completed. He told <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/new-salary-offer-for-civil-servants">The Sunday Mail</a>:
<blockquote>
We are currently doing consultations and working on a comprehensive framework, which is being spearheaded by the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development.
Once we come up with the framework and clear indicators of what Government can offer, we then convene the NJNC, which 
will be a discussion between the representatives of the workers and the Government team.
We were hoping we will be done by this week (last week) and once we are done, we will definitely call for a NJNC meeting.
</blockquote>
The Ministry of Finance and Economic Development is said to be working on a comprehensive framework that will provide a clear roadmap for the government’s remuneration and non-monetary incentives. The government is already offering its workers various allowances of up to US$250 per month in foreign currency.
The NJNC meeting is expected to allow representatives from both parties to discuss a range of issues related to the welfare of public sector workers and the erosion of the value of wages.
After meeting with the President, the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) is hopeful for an improved salary offer. ZCPSTU secretary-general Mr David Dzatsunga said they discussed the welfare of public sector workers and the erosion of wages. The President assured them that measures are being taken to find a lasting solution.
For the past four years, the government has been in a disagreement with workers over poor salaries and working conditions. The workers are asking for the restoration of their pre-October 2018 salaries, which were around US$540 and for their salaries to be paid in US dollars due to the rapid depreciation of the Zimbabwean dollar. The government has been unable to meet these demands, citing financial incapability.
<h3><a href="http://pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Zimbabwean Govt To Offer New Salary Package To Civil Servants

The Government is reportedly set to convene the National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC) meeting to review conditions of service for civil servants in the coming few weeks.
In an interview with <a href="https://newziana.co.zw/2023/06/01/government-to-convene-njnc-meeting-soon-mavima/">New Ziana</a> on Wednesday, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Paul_Mavima">Paul Mavima</a>, said Government ministries are already working on a framework for reviewing civil servants’ salaries. Said Mavima:
<blockquote>
So, that consultation is taking place. It might take about a week or so, but once we have that framework and clear indicators of what is possible from the Government’s side, we then convene the NJNC, which will be a discussion between the representatives of the workers and the Government team.
</blockquote>
The Government awarded civil servants a 100 per cent salary hike in April this year but the increment has since been eroded by rising inflation.
Civil servants also rejected the 100% salary increment offer, accusing their employer of unilateralism.
Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) president <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Cecilia_Alexander">Cecilia Alexander</a> said no agreement was signed when Government representatives and civil servants met under the National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC).
The Government, however, proceeded to effect the salary increment in spite of protests from civil servants.
The adjustment included an increase of the COVID-19 allowance from US$200 to US$250 per month across all sectors, excluding the health sector.
Teachers were awarded a US$80 teaching allowance payable at the prevailing inter-bank rate with effect from April 1, 2023. The school fees payment facility for children of teachers was scrapped.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt To Meet Civil Servants Over Salary Increment Soon - Mavima

The Government says it will review civil servants’ salaries soon to cushion them from rising prices of goods and services.
Responding to questions from journalists during a post-Cabinet briefing on Tuesday regarding the Teaching Professional Council Bill and whether it will change the negotiations on teachers’ salaries, acting Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Jenfan Muswere said:
<blockquote>
The platform for salary negotiation is another platform and this will not disrupt any negotiations that are taking place.
That is why Professor Mthuli Ncube has just indicated that the review of civil servants’ salaries has already started and it is another platform.
</blockquote>
On Wednesday, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Paul Mavima told <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/govt-to-cushion-workers-salaries/">The Herald</a> that the National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC), the umbrella forum for discussions on pay and conditions of service within public service, will meet within two weeks to discuss the percentage increase. Said Mavima:
<blockquote>
The percentage is subject to negotiation in the National Joint Negotiating Council.
As for the time frame, we will convene the NJNC as soon as the framework is provided by the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development. Within the next two weeks, the NJNC will have met.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Union (ZCPSTU) spokesperson, David Dzatsunga said:
<blockquote>
Right now, the concern is the restoration of the value of wages in local currency that has been lost recently due to the exchange rate madness and the resultant price increases.
At the moment there is no Zimbabwe dollar salary to speak of while the US$250 is an allowance.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Union chairperson Cecilia Alexander said it was their hope that Government would review both the local currency and forex component. Said Alexander:
<blockquote>
We also remain committed to the path of dialogue for it can only be through dialogue that we can be able to improve our conditions of service.
We are actually calling for an urgent NJNC meeting on the erosion of the local currency.
</blockquote>
Alexander said the Government should consider rising inflation in future salary reviews.
She said there was sabotage of some sort because whenever civil servants’ salaries are increased, prices of goods and services are hiked as well.
In April this year, the Government increased civil servants’ salaries by 100 percent but the increment has been eroded by runaway inflation and the depreciating Zimbabwe dollar.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Review Of Civil Servants' Salaries Has Already Started - Mthuli Ncube

Civil servants have rejected the Government’s 100% salary increment offer, accusing their employer of unilateralism.
Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) president CecIlia Alexander on Friday said no agreement was signed when Government representatives and civil servants met under the National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC).
She also accused the Public Service Commission (PSC) of insincerity. Said Alexander:
<blockquote>
ZCPSTU refused to sign the NJNC agreement because the PSC pre-empted through a circular written by the secretary who ordinarily should not have according to Statutory Instruments (SI) 141 of 1997.
</blockquote>
She claimed that some State employees (uniformed forces) got their increment in February while others only received an increment in April. <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/https-www-newzimbabwe-com-civil-servants-reject-governments-100-increment-offer/">NewZimbabwe.com</a> quoted Alexander as saying:
<blockquote>
The effective date where other sectors got a salary increase two months earlier and other civil servants have no inflation-adjusted salary components.
</blockquote>
Early this month, the Government approved a 100% remuneration review for civil servants except for the health sector.
The adjustment included an increase of the COVID-19 allowance from US$200 to US$250 per month across all sectors, excluding the health sector.
Teachers were awarded an US$80 teaching allowance payable at the prevailing inter-bank rate with effect from April 1, 2023. The school fees payment facility for children of teachers was scrapped.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Civil Servants Reject 100% Salary Increment

Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) secretary-general Japhet Moyo has said the majority of employers in the private sector cannot afford to match the recent salary adjustments set by the Government.
The Government recently approved a 100% salary increment for civil servants, with COVID-19 allowances also increased from US$200 to $250 across sectors excluding the health sector.
Moyo said in the past the private sector had been using Government salaries as a yardstick but this time, very few can afford to do that. <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/government-sets-salary-bar-too-high-private-sector/">The Sunday News</a> quoted Moyo as saying:
<blockquote>
There were different reactions to the Government’s position. Some sectors sort of followed what the Government offered its workers and some are offering a bit lower and we have not heard of anyone that is offering above that yet.
It is not always that they follow what the Government prescribes to its own employees but that has been the trend for a long time.
There are employers who believe that it is unaffordable as they source foreign currency from the black market.
Not all employers get their money from the auction system so they are worried that they may not be able to match what the Government has given for its workers from where prices are usually pegged. That’s the sentiment I am getting.
Collective bargaining has been very difficult, there are many backlogs that are there in all sectors so it looks like many of these sectors will not be able to do what the Government has done for its workers this time around.
</blockquote>
However, economist Morris Mpala, said despite the 100 percent increase in salaries for civil servants, public workers still earn less than workers in the private sector. He said:
<blockquote>
The 100 percent salary increase is good, yes but still civil servants rank low as compared to the private sector.
It is of course in the right direction that they were awarded this increase but it does not really motivate the private sector to do much as they still remain high in terms of salary rankings.
</blockquote>
Most of the time, civil servants rarely enjoy a salary increment because as soon as an announcement is made, shops and service providers hike prices and the exchange rate also shifts on the parallel market.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Private Sector Cannot Match Government's Salary Increment - ZCTU

The Government has approved a 100% salary increment for civil servants including the members of the security sector.
According to a letter dated 16 March 2023, addressed to the chairman of the Public Service Commission (PSC) by Finance ministry permanent secretary George Guvamatanga, COVID-19 allowances for civil servants have also been increased from US$200 to $250 across sectors excluding the health sector. Part of the letter reads:
<blockquote>
<h2>RE: 2023 REMUNERATION FRAMEWORK FOR THE CIVIL COMMISSIONS, PARLIAMENT OF ZIMBABWE, GRANT GOVERNMENT PENSIONERS</h2>
Reference is made to Treasury minutes A/26/1/8/1 dated 7 March 2023 and 13 March 2023 on the above subject matter.
The purpose of this minute is to provide guidance on the framework for the 2023 compensation review, together with strategies for addressing wage inequalities brought about by prior sector-specific policy decisions.
The approved framework for remuneration reviews takes into account the requirement to continuously enhance the general welfare of public employees while attempting to stay within the budget and respecting the general rule of maintaining wage bills at sustainable levels so as not to compete with other expenditures.
The approved review is as follows and is in accordance with earlier discussions and agreement with the Principals:
<ul>
<li>100% remuneration review to gross ZWL emoluments from Deputy Director and below for all sectors</li>
<li>Reviewing Cushioning and Covid Allowances from US$200 to US$250 across all sectors, excluding health sector</li>
<li>Reviewing Cushioning and Covid Allowance for Government Pensioners from US$90 to US$100</li>
<li>Payment of US$80 teaching allowance to every teacher per month. This is an improvement to the school fees policy which discriminated against those teachers with no biological children</li>
<li>Free Primary school education up to a maximum of 3 children at government schools within the radius and</li>
<li>Introducing a government-funded funeral insurance framework</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
The approved review of 100% remuneration to gross ZWL emoluments from Deputy Director and below for all sectors, takes effect on February 1st, 2023 for the Security Sector and April 1st, 2023 for the Rest of the Civil Service. 
Furthermore, the increase in Cushioning and Covid Allowances from US$200 to US$250 across all sectors, with the exception of the health sector, takes effect on March 1, 2023 for the Security Sector and April 1, 2023 for the Rest of the Civil Service, taking into account March 2023 developments in the security sector.
In accordance with the approval of 100% remuneration review to gross ZWLS emoluments from Deputy Director and below, the salary key scale for the lowest paid worker for the security sector is therefore expected to be 100% of the gross ZWLS emoluments as per the attached schedule annexure 1 for selected grades as of 1 February 2023.
In that regard, the Salary key scale and wage bill should reflect the approved review as illustrated in the attached example for the positions of the lowest paid to Deputy Director equivalent levels across all sectors including Security Sector.
Given that the effective date is February 2023, it is critical to note that the March bills for the security sector included the February back pay for the gross ZWL emoluments from Deputy Director equivalent grades and below.
Furthermore, to avoid similar occurrences in the future, the Salary Service Bureau should implement salary reviews after the requisite salary key scales have been validated by Treasury.
Accordingly, Treasury awaits submission of the salary key scales for respective sectors for approval.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Civil Servants Granted 100% Salary Increment

The Zimbabwe Teachers’ Association (ZIMTA) has expressed outrage after the Government snubbed a National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC) meeting on Monday, 20 March.
Apex Council representatives and officials from the Ministry of Public Service were supposed to meet on 16 March 2023 to discuss civil servants’ salaries.
The meeting was postponed to 20 March but the Government team did not show up for the meeting, a development that has angered teachers.
In a statement released on Monday, ZIMTA demanded that the government should address all teachers’ grievances before the end of this month. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
This statement is an expression of great disappointment in the selective, divisive and iniquitous treatment of teachers that the government has exhibited for the first time in independent Zimbabwe. 
The government has amply demonstrated its dislike for the teaching profession, and the year 2023 goes down in history as the year of evidence of that position. 
Teachers are not only disappointed but also angry, and now prepondering on dumping the goodwill they had for the negotiations.
The 2023 season of negotiations was delayed up to late March with the promise that when negotiations start all will be set for meaningful and life-changing dialogue. 
This procrastination was tolerated with goodwill and hope but has turned out to be the greatest abuse of trust and utmost good faith. 
When the negotiations finally commenced they went on an erratic mode of fits and start and with insignificant and below-expectation awards tabled by Government.
Today, the 20th of March 2023 the negotiators went to the Public Service Commission (PSC) in anticipation of an NJNC meeting after it had been moved from last Thursday 16 March 2023 to this day, Monday 20 March 2023. 
Sadly, we must report that the meeting did not take place as the Government Team did not show up. 
It took a forced meeting to glean the situation from senior officials in the Ministry of Public Services, Labour, and Social Welfare. 
The workers’ negotiating team was advised by these officials that the Government side was seized with the matter and was busy consulting. 
The government side was said to be ready to call for the meeting once their internal consultations were through. (A response that sounds too familiar to believe).
ZIMTA, therefore, does not take lightly the government action as it views this as negotiating in bad faith, smacking of unilateralism that leans on skewed social dialogue legislation.
ZIMTA demands that the employer urgently addresses the looming crisis as its membership is already agitated and feeling disparaged by the employer.
Given that the employer paid other sectors enhanced salaries with effect from this March 2023 and that this month our membership received eroded salaries due to increased service providers’ premiums, inflation tax, etc, with some teachers taking home less than ZWL 5000.00. 
Our membership is left severely handicapped and incapacitated to report for duty.
ZIMTA, therefore, demands that in the interest of social dialogue the employer addresses this looming crisis by resolving all the outstanding demands as a matter of urgency and inside March 2023.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Teachers Express Outrage After Govt Ignores Rescheduled Salary Meeting

Public workers and the government have agreed on a new salary package but the parties still have differences that need to be ironed out.
On Friday, the government and representatives of civil servants met under the auspices of the National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC).
Speaking to <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/govt-workers-agree-on-salary-review/">New Ziana</a>, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister, Paul Mavima said the salary negotiations will continue on Thursday this week. He said:
<blockquote>
Negotiations are continuing. There are a few sticking points that can be resolved. They will sit again on Thursday to continue with the negotiations.
[However] we are not going to disclose what we offered. But the fact that they went back to the negotiating table means there was a variation. We would not go back without a variation.
</blockquote>
Secretary general of the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Workers Unions, David Dzatsunga, said:
<blockquote>
The Government did come up with a substantially reviewed offer, which was a fairly reasonable response to our demands.
The offer, though it was speaking to our counteroffer, there were some sticking points of equality where we felt that all workers should be treated equally.
Within their offer, there were some measures that we felt would, in a way, divide the workers.
We are saying that the reviewed salaries should be backdated to January while the Government offer is from April 1st.
We are going to have to persuade them to backdate the offer.
</blockquote>
Civil servants are demanding US$840 for the lowest-paid worker but the government has rejected the demands citing budgetary constraints.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

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