Teachers threaten job action over poor salaries

Teachers have accused Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube of failing to honour government commitments to improve their welfare, as rising fuel prices continue to push up the cost of living.

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ), led by President Obert Masaraure, delivered a petition to Ncube on Thursday outlining grievances and demands, including an urgent salary review.

Masaraure said teachers were promised a review of civil servant salaries in the first quarter of 2026 during the December 2025 budget debate, but no progress has been communicated. "The only response we've received is an insult from Deputy Minister Kudakwashe David Mnangagwa, claiming our salaries are competitive. We reject this," he said.

Among ARTUZ's demands is a minimum monthly wage of US$1,260, aimed at ensuring teachers' families can survive and restoring dignity to the profession. Masaraure also criticized government fuel price hikes, noting that while global markets saw a 4% increase, Zimbabwe's pump price rose 40%, calling it "extortion" and a barrier to rural service.

The union has issued a four-day ultimatum for government action and warned that teachers may stage industrial action when schools reopen for the second term. "No solution, no school. Teachers will not report for duty next term if our demands are not met," Masaraure stated.

The dispute comes amid broader civil servant dissatisfaction, following recent industrial action by nurses over poor working conditions and pay.