Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
THE increasing use of short-term contracts in the retail and wholesale sector is undermining job security and contributing to growing instability among workers, a trade union has said.
The Progressive Retail and Wholesale Workers union of Zimbabwe (PRWWUZ) said the trend has left employees in a state of uncertainty, with limited access to long-term benefits and employment protections.
Speaking on the celebrations of Workers Day, PRWWUZ general secretary Mr Phillip Mafundu said the situation reflected worsening labour conditions in the sector.
“Workers are being kept in a state of permanent uncertainty through short-term contracts which deny them long-term benefits and stability,” he said.
Mr Mafundu said the development has further weakened worker morale and contributed to concerns over deteriorating conditions in the industry ahead of Workers’ Day commemorations.
He said what should be a celebratory occasion had instead become a moment of reflection on the challenges facing workers in the sector.
“In the retail and wholesale sector, the situation is dire. Workers are struggling, and it is our belief that this year’s May Day celebrations are not truly celebrations,” Mr Mafundu said.
He said workers were experiencing low wages, rising cost of living pressures and alleged unfair labour practices.
Mr Mafundu also raised concerns over labour practices at retail chain stores and accused them of victimising employees who join trade unions.
He further alleged that some workers were being subjected to punitive measures, including denial of workplace benefits, for participating in union activities.
Mr Mafundu also expressed concern over wage determination processes under the National Employment Council (NEC) for the commercial sector and said there was insufficient transparency in negotiations.
“Salary adjustments are often announced without clear consultation or transparency. The current NEC structure does not adequately represent retail and wholesale workers,” he said.
Mr Mafundu said they have applied to the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare for the establishment of a dedicated NEC for the retail and wholesale sector.
“We have applied for the creation of a dedicated NEC for the retail and wholesale sector, and we are awaiting a response from the Ministry,” he said.
Mr Mafundu said the proposed structure would enhance collective bargaining and ensure that sector-specific issues were properly addressed.
He urged workers to adhere to legal procedures in the event of labour disputes, including observing the statutory seven-day strike notice period as provided for under labour regulations.
