Civil servants start receiving annual bonuses

The Government has commenced the disbursement of annual bonuses to civil servants, fulfilling its promise of a 13th cheque to its workforce. Payments began last Friday, with banks and major supermarkets witnessing increased activity as recipients withdrew their bonuses and embarked on shopping sprees.

The phased bonus payout, which started with members of the security services, will extend to health workers, educators, and the rest of the civil service in the coming weeks. Traditional leaders and their aides are also set to receive bonuses as part of the arrangement.
Staggered Payments to Manage Demand

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare, Mr. Simon Masanga, explained the rationale behind the staggered payments, stating:

"We agreed that bonuses were going to be spread over two months, that was the initial plan that we made and agreed upon."

The first tranche, comprising 50 percent of the bonus, is being paid alongside November salaries, with the remaining amount scheduled for December. This arrangement aims to ease pressure on the banking system and avoid long queues.
Sector-Specific Updates

Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) president, Mrs. Cecelia Alexander, confirmed the rollout and praised the Government's commitment to its pledge.

"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," she said.

Mrs. Alexander lauded the Government for honoring its promise, noting that the payout aligns with agreements made during the National Joint Negotiating Council meetings.

Apex Council secretary-general, Mr. David Dzatsunga, acknowledged the payouts but emphasized the need for continued dialogue to enhance civil servants' welfare.

"Uniformed forces got theirs today, and next will be education, followed by the rest of the civil service. We appreciate the bonuses, but more needs to be done to reach our target of US$840 monthly," he said.
Long-Term Commitment to Civil Servants

Over the years, the Government has introduced several measures to improve the welfare of civil servants, including affordable housing, transport schemes, and vehicle duty rebates. These efforts, coupled with increased dialogue, have strengthened relations between the Government and its workforce.

As the bonus disbursement progresses, civil servants in all sectors are expected to have received their payments by the end of the year. The move underscores the Government's commitment to improving conditions of service, despite economic constraints.
Positive Reception

The payouts have been met with appreciation by workers and their representatives, as evidenced by the orderly process observed so far. The split payment approach has also received support for its role in reducing strain on banking systems during the festive season.

This development marks another step in the Government's ongoing engagement with civil servants to enhance their welfare and address their concerns through continuous dialogue.