CommuTalk Reporter
GWERU – The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions has demanded USD-pegged salaries saying it is the only currency that can restore wage value and enhance social security.
Speaking during Workers Day commemorations in Gweru, ZCTU Vice President, Valentine Chikosi said their demand for USD salaries still stands and is becoming more relevant by the day as workers in every sector are underpaid in a weak currency.
“We reiterate our call that wages and salaries must be pegged in USD. Private and public pension houses are all paying peanuts.
“Price increases spurred by inflation have choked our meagre wages. Workers need real jobs and realistic salaries,” he said.
Chikosi highlighted that most workers were earning basic salaries below ZWL200 000 per month, while the Poverty Datum Line was over USD500 per month for a family of six.
“Social partners agreed on a USD150 minimum wage which was supposed to be gazetted with effect from October 2022.
“That has not been affected and government is adamantly claiming that the USD150 was just a recommendation. Such arrogance cannot be tolerated when workers’ welfare is at stake,” he added.
ZCTU central region acting chairperson Rebecca Butau also told the gathering that workers play a pivotal role in uplifting the country’s economy and therefore should be respected and honoured so that they work hard for prosperity.
She said workers should stand firm against corruption by reporting cases to the police and relevant authorities so that it can be curbed.
Adding to the worker’s plight, opposition political party, the United Zimbabwe Alliance said the bulk of the workers are surviving on a hand-to-mouth basis and have been reduced to paupers.
“Workers are faced with low wages and job insecurity with some even going for months without getting paid,” UZA said in a statement.
The party urged the government to prioritize the well-being of workers by creating an enabling environment that allows workers to earn decent wages for their labour, have job security and work in decent conditions.
This years’ celebrations were held under the theme, “Workers Demand an Inclusive Zimbabwe Free from Poverty, Corruption and Oppression”.
