dyton mupawaenda
Wallace Ruzvidzo-Herald Reporter
CIVIL servants have thanked the Second Republic for guaranteeing bonus payments describing this as a confidence booster ahead of the festive season.
Before the advent of the Second Republic, civil service bonuses were an object of hope and prayer as the Government workers were never sure when their 13th cheque would come but this is now a thing of the past as President Mnangagwa’s administration rewrote the script and assured the workers.
Government on Thursday assured civil servants that their bonuses were guaranteed, while urging them to continue improving on service delivery.
Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube is expected to outline the payment modalities soon.
In recent years, Government workers traditionally receive their bonuses in November and December. Last year, Government staggered the payment of bonuses and the uniformed forces were the first to be paid.
Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Union spokesperson Mr David Dzatsunga yesterday said the guaranteeing of bonuses was a welcome initiative with discussions on the modalities for the bonus payments now the only thing left.
“We are naturally very happy. It’s a welcome statement that has come at the right time. Obviously it has been looming but we still appreciate that Government has stuck to the trajectory.
“We are looking at what we want to talk to Government about in relation to the modalities of how the bonuses will be paid. But overall of course we are very happy,” he said.
In a separate interview, Zimbabwe Nurses Association president Mr Enock Dongo said the guaranteeing of bonuses had served to show that President Mnangagwa’s administration was “honest” in improving civil servants’ working conditions. Nurses were very much looking forward to their 13th cheque. “This is a welcome development. This really shows that Government through the President are honest and they are serious with their cause to make sure that we are taken care of so we are very happy. We are looking forward to a meaningful bonus so that our people can smile come end of the month although we are not yet sure when we will get it,” he said.
A civil servant who preferred anonymity described Government’s reassurance as a “huge relief”.
“When I heard about this development I was overjoyed because I was not entirely sure you know, but now that Government has given us surety I can now focus on my work duties. I feel secure, this is a huge relief,” she said.
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister July Moyo on Thursday said the bonuses were “guaranteed”.
“The bonuses are guaranteed and the Minister of Finance will soon announce the payment dates,” said Minister Moyo.
Government workers, whose salaries are paid in local currency, are also paid a US$300 monthly allowance.
In March, Government awarded its workers a 100 percent salary increase and reviewed their allowance from US$200 to US$250. In July the allowance was increased to US$300 and teachers were awarded an additional US$80 monthly allowance which is paid in local currency.
Online Reporter