Zimbabwe teachers demand payment of November salaries

The government is facing growing backlash from teachers across Zimbabwe after it failed to pay them their November salaries and 13th cheque (bonus) without providing any explanation.

In a statement released yesterday, the Zimbabwe Teachers Association (Zimta) expressed its frustration over the omission, accusing the government of unfairness and breaching the agreed terms of employment. The teachers, who have been waiting for their pay, are calling for urgent disbursement of their outstanding wages and bonuses, as well as transparency in the payment process.

While other civil servants, particularly those in the security services, were paid their salaries and bonuses last week, the teachers were left out in what has been described as a significant financial setback for educators.

"The omission has caused significant financial hardship and raised serious questions on the fairness, transparency, and integrity of the employer's commitment to honouring contractual obligations," Zimta said in its statement. "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 an erosion of trust between employees and the employer."

The teachers' association emphasized that the failure to pay salaries and bonuses on time undermines their morale and dignity, particularly considering the crucial role educators play in the society. "It signals a lack of recognition of the vital services we render to society," Zimta added.

The delay in payments has raised concerns about the government's ability to fulfill its financial commitments to public servants. Zimta is demanding a clear explanation from the government regarding the payment issue and calling for genuine dialogue to address teachers' welfare concerns.

The situation comes after Finance Ministry Permanent Secretary George Guvamatanga acknowledged in a recent letter that the government is facing financial difficulties. He attributed the fiscal constraints to the 43% depreciation of the Zimbabwean dollar (ZiG), which has led to a significant mismatch between revenue inflows and local currency expenditures. Guvamatanga explained that this issue, coupled with a backdated salary review in October 2024, has severely limited the government's fiscal space for the final quarter of the year.

"The imbalance was further exacerbated by a backdated salary review award in October 2024 to the civil service," he said. "Given the consequent limited fiscal space and the need to mobilise additional resources to fund critical inescapable expenditures, MDAs (ministries, departments, and agencies) are requested to prioritise their expenditure commitments during this period."

Teachers are particularly upset by the government's failure to pay their salaries, given the importance of their roles in shaping the future of the country. They are now calling on the authorities to resolve the payment delays and engage in meaningful discussions about their working conditions and remuneration.

No comment was obtained from the Public Service Commission regarding the issue at the time of publication.