adminPeter Matambanadzo
GOVERNMENT is geared to tackle unemployment and create jobs for the youths who are expected to play a visible role in the economy, a senior official has said. In an interview on the progress of implementation of Decent Work Country Programme for Zimbabwe for the period 2012 to 2015, Ministry of Labour and Social Services permanent secretary, Mr Lance Museka, said they were ready to tackle unemployment as mandated with the help of other ministries and partners.
“As you know traditionally the Ministry of Labour has the role to create employment and ensure that there are fair labour standards.”
Mr Museka said this was consistent with Zanu-PF’s manifesto which envisages the creation of 2,265 million jobs across key sectors of the economy and contribute to export earnings, food security and the fiscus among many other benefits.
“Most of these new jobs will directly benefit the youths who are also expected to play a visible role in the economy,” he said.
This comes at a time when unemployment in Zimbabwe remains stubbornly high.
The 2011 Human Development Report indicates a decline in total employment to population ratio from 70,1 percent in 1991 to 64,9 percent in 2010.
The unemployment pressure is particularly high on labour markets for youth given that decent work opportunities are in short supply.
The Decent Work Country Programme is anchored on the four key principles of creating jobs, guaranteeing rights at work, extending social protection, and promoting social dialogue.
Online Reporter