Online Reporter
Judith Phiri ,Zimpapers Business Hub
THE Government has reaffirmed its commitment to align labour standards with international standards and best practices to promote fair labour practices and enhance labour productivity.
Giving a keynote address and officially opening the 43rd Employers’ Confederation of Zimbabwe (EMCOZ) Annual Congress and AGM in Bulawayo, the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Edgar Moyo said workers’ rights should be prioritised.
“I want to recognise the vital role of social partners-the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions and the Zimbabwe Federation of Trade Unions, whose advocacy ensures workers’ rights are prioritised and their voices heard in national development. Their participation through solidarity messages highlights the importance of unity and collaboration in navigating economic challenges,” he said.
“Additionally, we appreciate the valuable involvement of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Country Director, whose insights and support continue to be instrumental in aligning our efforts with international standards and best practices.”
He said meaningful and inclusive social dialogue was the cornerstone of transforming the economy and society.
The Minister said by fostering open communication among Government, employers, workers and civil society, they can unlock innovative solutions, promote social justice and build an inclusive economy that benefits all Zimbabweans.
“This year’s theme underscores that sustainable development and economic resilience are achievable only through genuine collaboration and shared commitment. One of the key topics you will explore, is the impact of monetary policy on business operations.
“Fluctuations in currency, inflation and interest rates directly affect your members’ livelihoods and the competitiveness of industries. Developing innovative strategies and policy recommendations to cushion these impacts and promote economic stability, is more crucial than ever,” he added.
He encouraged EMCOZ members to participate in the Tripartite Negotiating Forum (TNF) which provides an essential platform for social partners to engage in meaningful dialogue, negotiate fair labour standards and develop consensus on key issues affecting industrial relations.
Minister Moyo said active contribution in the TNF clusters, (social, labour and economic) has been valuable, while EMCOZ participation and inputs in the cluster meetings has benefited all stakeholders by fostering mutual understanding, promoting social justice, and ensuring that issues discussed are inclusive and balanced.
“Promoting social dialogue through this forum is vital for creating a stable industrial relations environment, preventing disputes and advancing sustainable development. It is also important to highlight that EMCOZ, as a business organisation, has been very active in ILO activities. Your officials have demonstrated commendable commitment through active participation in the International Labour Conference (ILC), where government, business, and labour representatives come together to address various issues related to international labour relations.”
He called on EMCOZ to encourage its members to promote fair labour standards within workplaces, while upholding fair labour practices not only ensures the protection of workers’ rights but also enhances productivity, employee morale, and the reputation of industries.
The Minister said his Ministry was making an effort to establish a Labour Market Information System.
“This system will provide critical insights into labour market trends, skills shortages, and employment patterns, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions. Leveraging LMIS can improve workforce planning, identify gaps in skills training, and support evidence based policy formulation ultimately leading to more efficient labour markets and better job matching,” he added.
The two day event is running under the theme: “Social Dialogue for Economic and Social Transformation.”
