News / National
ZCTU slams 'meaningless' salary adjustments
16 Apr 2026 at 10:14hrs |
0 Views
The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has criticised government over what it describes as failed salary increments for civil servants, saying recent pay adjustments have left workers no better off amid rising living costs.
The labour body's remarks follow widespread complaints from public sector employees, including health workers and members of the uniformed forces, who say the latest salary changes were either negligible or not implemented as communicated.
Earlier reports had indicated a new remuneration framework shifting towards a performance-based system, with salaries ranging from about US$370 to US$900 depending on grade. However, workers say actual payments fell far short of expectations.
A medical doctor at a public hospital said there was no meaningful improvement in earnings, noting that his pay had even declined compared to the previous month. A nurse at Parirenyatwa Hospital also confirmed she did not receive the anticipated increase, while a police officer reported only a marginal adjustment.
The situation has already triggered labour unrest, with nurses reportedly notifying government of planned nationwide demonstrations beginning April 20.
ZCTU secretary-general Tirivanhu Marimo described the developments as a betrayal of workers.
"It is unacceptable that, on payday, public servants… received adjustments that are so insignificant they amount to nothing," he said.
He said the gap between official announcements and actual salaries reflects "dishonesty, tokenism, and disregard for workers' welfare," adding that it undermines trust in public institutions.
Marimo also criticised government priorities, arguing that rising transport costs and taxes have further eroded disposable incomes for low-paid workers.
Labour officials have urged government to avoid announcing salary increases before finalising binding agreements through formal negotiation structures, warning that premature pronouncements are fuelling frustration and mistrust among civil servants.
The labour body's remarks follow widespread complaints from public sector employees, including health workers and members of the uniformed forces, who say the latest salary changes were either negligible or not implemented as communicated.
Earlier reports had indicated a new remuneration framework shifting towards a performance-based system, with salaries ranging from about US$370 to US$900 depending on grade. However, workers say actual payments fell far short of expectations.
A medical doctor at a public hospital said there was no meaningful improvement in earnings, noting that his pay had even declined compared to the previous month. A nurse at Parirenyatwa Hospital also confirmed she did not receive the anticipated increase, while a police officer reported only a marginal adjustment.
The situation has already triggered labour unrest, with nurses reportedly notifying government of planned nationwide demonstrations beginning April 20.
ZCTU secretary-general Tirivanhu Marimo described the developments as a betrayal of workers.
"It is unacceptable that, on payday, public servants… received adjustments that are so insignificant they amount to nothing," he said.
He said the gap between official announcements and actual salaries reflects "dishonesty, tokenism, and disregard for workers' welfare," adding that it undermines trust in public institutions.
Marimo also criticised government priorities, arguing that rising transport costs and taxes have further eroded disposable incomes for low-paid workers.
Labour officials have urged government to avoid announcing salary increases before finalising binding agreements through formal negotiation structures, warning that premature pronouncements are fuelling frustration and mistrust among civil servants.
Source - newzimbabwe
Join the discussion
Loading comments…
