Chronicle Editor
Thandeka Moyo-Ndlovu, Chronicle Reporter
ZIMBABWE joins the rest of the world in marking International Workers Day today with calls for every citizen to complement Government’s effort towards developing the country.
Both informal and formal workers should work hard to ensure the country develops and in turn foster improved livelihoods.
In an interview yesterday, Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Professor Paul Mavima said workers are a key component of development for any country.
He said despite clashes over remuneration, the day is also a reminder of how powerful a force a worker is when they work with Government to foster development.
“There is no country that can prosper without taking care of its workers and motivating them in every possible way. There is also a need for workers to always understand their role and national responsibilities to cultivate development,” said Prof Mavima.
“The country should respect the workers from the perspective of ensuring they get a living a wage and meet their expectations as people.”
He said workers also have an obligation to work hard in their respective departments to collectively uplift companies and the country’s economy.
Prof Mavima said a healthy economy is a boon for every worker as there is an increased share of the fiscal cake for everyone.
“When the Government and workers come together, we have a good recipe for national development. I urge every Zimbabwean to think of everything they can do to contribute today as we celebrate workers,” he said.
Prof Mavima said the day is also meant to help people remember those who are working hard to keep the economy thriving in family set-ups and the informal sector.
“Government should think about remuneration and keeping workers happy today and everyone who is an employer must ensure their workers have access to at least a decent wage. Workers from their hands should also put in good work so that our country can also go forward,” he added.
The Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions’ (ZCPSTU) —formerly known as the Apex Council — secretary general Mr David Dzatsunga said today was one of the saddest days for members who are failing to make ends meet.
He said the day will be spent on strategising on how to approach Government.
“Our message is to call for the workers of this country to unite as the situation we have right now is against the workers. The majority continue to earn in RTGS and most businesses are transacted in forex which we are not getting,” said Mr Dzatsunga.
“We call them to come together and with one voice demand for what is theirs because we need to earn what will ensure we have a decent living. The civil service will have a dull workers day as we are still engaging the Government on our renumeration.”
Mr Dzatsunga said the no work no pay measure being implemented was also a challenge as some workers cannot afford to go to work.
“We are appealing to the Government to treat us with fairness. We cannot afford most of the basics. Zimstat just released statistics that show the basket poverty datum line now stands at $29 000 and teachers earn about $22 000 at most. Surely, we will continue engaging the employer for better conditions,” he said. -@thamamoe
Online Reporter