Civil servants are urging the government to ensure they receive their full bonuses and not have them staggered like last year. The government recently announced its readiness to pay bonuses, but has not provided details on the payment process, leading to concerns.
The civil servants also want the government to address unresolved issues related to improving their working conditions. The Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) has written to the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/National_Joint_Negotiating_Council_(NJNC)/">National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC)</a> requesting an emergency meeting to discuss the bonus matter. ZCPSTU chairperson <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Cecilia_Alexander/">Cecilia Alexander</a> told <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200019152/civil-servants-restive-over-bonus">NewsDay</a> on Sunday:
<blockquote>
We wrote a letter to the NJNC for an emergency meeting to deliberate on several issues and outstanding matters related to the third quarter. Of course, we are now in the fourth quarter.
In the letter, we identified our proposed agenda. One of them is to discuss the 2023 bonus and modalities. We wrote to NJNC since they are our chief negotiator with the government. We want to appreciate what government is going to pay us.
</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Obert_Masaraure/">Obert Masaraure</a>, the president of the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Amalgamated_Rural_Teachers_Union_of_Zimbabwe/">Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe</a>, expressed concern that this year’s bonus payment may be staggered. He criticised the government for its lack of transparency and disregard for the welfare of workers, accusing them of prioritising cost-cutting over the well-being of hardworking individuals. He said:
<blockquote>
Now that we are through with the election season, we demand a new governance culture that prioritise the rights and well-being of workers.
We firmly assert that the bonus in 2023 must be paid in a single month without staggered disbursement. The government must ensure that the bonus is provided as a once-off payment to allow teachers to adequately prepare for the festive season.
</blockquote>
The secretary-general of the Educators Union of Zimbabwe, Tapedza Zhou, mentioned that they are awaiting an update from the government regarding their bonuses. He expressed that they have worked hard throughout the year and hope to receive their bonuses, but the payment method remains uncertain.
In recent years, the government has staggered the bonus payments, causing concern among civil servants. The civil servants are demanding a 100% bonus payment in both foreign and local currency. Discussions between the government and civil servant representatives took place last week but failed to reach an agreement on multiple issues, including salary and working conditions.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Pindula News

Civil Servants Urge Government To Avoid Staggering Bonuses Payments

Public workers and the government have agreed on a new salary package but the parties still have differences that need to be ironed out.
On Friday, the government and representatives of civil servants met under the auspices of the National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC).
Speaking to <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/govt-workers-agree-on-salary-review/">New Ziana</a>, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister, Paul Mavima said the salary negotiations will continue on Thursday this week. He said:
<blockquote>
Negotiations are continuing. There are a few sticking points that can be resolved. They will sit again on Thursday to continue with the negotiations.
[However] we are not going to disclose what we offered. But the fact that they went back to the negotiating table means there was a variation. We would not go back without a variation.
</blockquote>
Secretary general of the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Workers Unions, David Dzatsunga, said:
<blockquote>
The Government did come up with a substantially reviewed offer, which was a fairly reasonable response to our demands.
The offer, though it was speaking to our counteroffer, there were some sticking points of equality where we felt that all workers should be treated equally.
Within their offer, there were some measures that we felt would, in a way, divide the workers.
We are saying that the reviewed salaries should be backdated to January while the Government offer is from April 1st.
We are going to have to persuade them to backdate the offer.
</blockquote>
Civil servants are demanding US$840 for the lowest-paid worker but the government has rejected the demands citing budgetary constraints.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Minister Mavima Speaks On Civil Servants Salary Negotiations

Civil servants reportedly rejected a US$50 salary increment offered by the Government during a National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC) meeting held last week Friday.
On Thursday 02 March, the government reportedly offered civil servants a 50% Zimbabwe dollar increment and a US$20 hike which was rejected.
Then on Friday, 10 March, the government offered to increase civil servants’ gross salaries in local currency from 50% to 100% and reconfigured the COVID-19 allowance and the cushion allowance from the previously offered US$220 to US$250.
Representatives of the civil servants under the Zimbabwe Congress of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU), did not disclose the figures tabled by the government during the negotiations.
In a statement issued on Friday, ZCPSTU only said there were issues that they did not agree with during the negotiations. Part of the statement reads:
<blockquote>
The government made several concessions on our demands, but there are outstanding issues.
As a workers’ team of negotiators, we requested the government team of negotiators to engage their principals and make further consultations about the outstanding demands.
The meeting has agreed to meet on March 16, 2023, for feedback from the government’s side.
</blockquote>
Civil servants are demanding a salary increment that would see the least-paid worker earning US$840.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt, Civil Servants Representatives To Meet Again On 16 March

An investigation by an online publication, The NewsHawks, has revealed the pay hike offer the government made to public sector workers at the National Joint Negotiation Council (NJNC) meeting that was held in Harare last week.
The salary negotiations were held on the 9th-floor boardroom of the Kaguvi Building in Harare between representatives of the Public Service Commission (PSC) and the Zimbabwe Congress of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU).
The meeting ended in a deadlock and the negotiations were postponed to Thursday (today).
Speaking after last week’s meeting, ZCPSTU chairperson Cecilia Alexander said they agreed not to publicise the government’s offer until an agreement has been reached.
According to <a href="https://thenewshawks.com/hidden-pay-hike-offer-to-civil-servants-unmasked/">The NewsHawks</a>, the government offered: a 50% Zimdollar increment, US$20 across the board, US$50 teaching allowance converted to Zimdollars on the prevailing interbank market rate and US$30 to the rest of the public sector workers, also converted to local currency.
The civil servants’ demand through ZCPSTU was US$840 salaries, an increase on the US$540 that they have long been clamouring for.
Teachers are currently earning a minimum of ZWL$36 000 and US$120, plus US$75 COVID-19 allowance.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Pay Hike Offer Rejected By Civil Servants "Revealed"

Civil servants have urged Parliament to investigate the Premier Service Medical Aid Society (PSMAS) to establish the cause for the closure of health facilities owned by its subsidiary, Premier Service Medical Investments (PSMI).
PSMAS provides medical cover for almost all State employees as well as other people who are not members of the civil service.
According to <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/public-workers-want-parly-to-investigate-psmas/">The Herald</a>, civil servants’ premiums are subsided by the government while PSMAS members outside the civil service pay a higher tariff as they do not get a Government subsidy.
The closure of PSMI clinics, pharmacies and hospitals has forced members to move into the private sector and make co-payments even when their cards are accepted.
Representatives of the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (formerly Apex Council) on Monday appeared before the Portfolio Committee on Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare.
Speaking before the Committee, ZCPSTU secretary general David Dzatsunga said the situation has become dire for civil servants. He said:
<blockquote>
When it comes to PSMAS, most of the PSMI institutions are closed and the situation has become dire for civil servants who cannot afford the high tariffs charged by private doctors and institutions.
… As a committee you can engage with the regulator of medical aid societies (Ministry of Health and Child Care, Air Commodore Dr. Jasper Chimedza), PSMAS and the Public Service Commission.
These are the institutions you may want to engage and get to know what exactly is going on.
</blockquote>
PSMAS and its subsidiaries have also failed to pay workers for several months, with the bulk of company resources reportedly being channeled to management welfare.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Civil Servants Want Parliament To Investigate PSMAS

Civil servants rejected a salary offer tabled by the government during a National Joint Negotiation Council (NJNC) meeting held in Harare on Thursday.
Zimbabwe Congress of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) chairperson Cecilia Alexander told <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200008230/no-joy-for-civil-servantsas-govt-tables-paltry-offer">NewsDay</a> that what the government had offered was too little and embarrassing.
She said the parties agreed not to publicise the offer until an agreement has been reached. Said Alexander:
<blockquote>
We agreed with the government not to publicise the offer in order for negotiations to proceed in good faith. We outrightly rejected the offer from the government.
What government offered as increments were too little from what we are asking. However, we agreed on further engagements.
We allowed the government to make further consultations so that it comes up with meaningful proposals at the negotiation table.
In other issues, we deliberated on the issue of school fees payment for teachers’ children, to which we agreed that both parties (government and ZCPSTU) should follow up on the matter to ensure that every eligible teacher benefits from the incentive.
</blockquote>
The NJNC will meet again on Thursday next week for further deliberations.
Under the NJNC, civil servants are demanding a salary increment that will see the least-paid worker earning US$840.
Currently, teachers are earning at least $36 000 and US$120, plus a US$75 COVID-19 allowance.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Civil Servants Reject Latest Government Salary Increment Offer

The government says it is experiencing financial constraints and therefore cannot afford to pay civil servants bonuses at once, and will spread the payment of the 13th cheque over two months, that is, November and December.
This came out during a National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC) meeting held on Monday, 7 November 2022, in Harare.
The NJNC brings together the government and unions representing civil servants for negotiations on the latter’s salaries and conditions of service.
During yesterday’s NJNC meeting, the government said it would pay all employees 50% of their bonuses this month, while the balance would be paid next month.
Addressing reporters after the meeting, Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Unions president Cecilia Alexander said it was agreed that all civil servants from the deputy director level and below would receive their bonuses unconditionally. She said:
<blockquote>
The workers’ side representatives met with the government on the 7th of November 2022 to deliberate on quite a number of issues, chief among them is the payment modalities of 2022 annual bonuses.
The meeting agreed that all civil servants from deputy director grade and below will receive their bonuses unconditionally.
The bonuses will be accorded in two tranches starting from November to December across the board.
Fifty percent of the annual bonus will be paid per the said months plus the usual earnings.
</blockquote>
Alexander said outstanding fees for teachers’ children would also be paid in batches for all terms in December through the Salary Service Bureau. She added:
<blockquote>
On performance advancement, all members will be rightfully placed in their grades in January 2023, while the arrears will be worked upon thereafter.
</blockquote>
Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) secretary-general Raymond Majongwe, said while the government should be commended for paying bonuses unconditionally, it was disheartening that teachers were paid far less compared to other civil servants. Said Majongwe:
<blockquote>
We applaud the government’s first step to treat all workers unconditionally. However, we continue imploring the employer to do likewise on salary earnings.
We are not happy with the current salary discrepancies that have seen teachers earning less than the rest of the civil servants when we are working for the same employer.
</blockquote>
Nurses and soldiers earn significantly higher salaries than police officers and teachers, which has been a bone of contention for the latter. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200003218/govt-to-spread-bonus-payment">NewsDay</a>

Govt To Spread Bonus Payment Across November And December

The government on Monday reversed its controversial plan to pay performance-based bonuses to some civil servants.
In the past, the government had paid a uniform 13th cheque to public sector workers but recently announced that only deserving workers will get a bonus.
A National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC) meeting was held today where public sector union representatives pressed the government to scrap its plan to award bonuses based on performance.
Cecilia Alexander, the president of the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU), told reporters:
<blockquote>
The workers’ side representatives met the government to deliberate on quite a number of issues, chief among them the payment modalities of the 2022 annual bonus.
The meeting resolved that all civil servants from deputy director grade and below will receive their bonuses unconditionally.
</blockquote>
She said the government cited cash-flow challenges and as a result agreed to pay the bonus over two months, with half of the bonus payment set to be effected alongside November salaries, and the other in December.
Alexander also said the government committed to paying outstanding school fees for teachers’ children in December.
The government also said it would place civil servants in their proper grades starting in January 2023, said Alexander. | <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/2022/11/performance-based-bonus-scraped-for-civil-servants-after-outcry/">ZimLive</a>

Govt Scraps Performance-based Bonus For Junior Civil Servants

The National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC) is scheduled to meet on Monday morning with the issue of modalities for the payment of the 2022 bonus on the agenda.
The NJNC brings together the government and unions representing civil servants for negotiations on the latter’s salaries and conditions of service.
A letter dated 7 November 2022, addressed to Apex Council chairperson, Cecilia Alexander, by the NJNC chairman, reads in part:
<blockquote>
The Chairperson of the National Joint Negotiation Council (NJNC) invites members to an NJNC meeting to be held on 07 November 2022 at 1100hrs in the 9th Floor Boardroom, Kaguvi Building.
</blockquote>
Last week, the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Paul Mavima said that civil servants will start receiving the 13th cheque this month.
He, however, said some top civil servants, that is, heads of Government departments who signed performance contracts will not receive their bonuses if they fail to meet their targets.
Civil servants are demanding an unconditional 13th cheque and a living wage.

Govt, Civil Servants' Unions Meet This Monday

Teachers have grudgingly welcomed the upward review of public sector workers’ USD allowances to US$200 from US$175.
The new salary regime was tabled on Tuesday during a meeting of the National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC).
The government also pledged to continue paying the annual bonus, a 13th cheque, in foreign currency as was done last year but the full details of that payment are yet to be revealed.
Secretary-General of the Association of School Heads Munyaradzi Majoni said they welcomed the increment but they want teachers’ salaries and allowances to be at par with the rest of the civil service. He said:
<blockquote>
Any increment is welcome though we are still lagging behind when compared to other Government departments.
Education is paid five times less than nurses and other civil servants.
Our allowances are too low and the allowances should be the same for all civil servants But we welcome the increment.
</blockquote>
The chairperson of the National Association of Primary Schools, Cynthia Khumalo, said the increment is better than nothing. She said:
<blockquote>
We appreciate the increment but we want the authorities to look further into the issue because 25 per cent will not change anything. It is difficult to accept but at least the increment is better than nothing.
We want the money to be reviewed to US$540 because we once earned that money sometime back during the dollarisation era.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Teachers’ Union (ZIMTA) secretary-general Goodwill Taderera said:
<blockquote>
The money is not adequate or to our expectations. When the minister promised us an increment, we had higher expectations.
We want social dialogue to prevail so that we can address our concerns to the Government.
</blockquote>
The outcome of Tuesday’s NJNC meeting was confirmed by Apex Council chairperson Cecelia Alexander. She said:
<blockquote>
The employer offered an increase of 25 per cent on the USD$100 to make it US$125 and maintained the USD$75 COVID-19 allowance to make the total US dollar package US$200 with effect from September 1, 2022.
The workers acknowledged the increase but chose to wait for specific modalities on how this is going to be implemented
The employer did not offer or table any increase on the Zimbabwe dollar salary and the workers demanded that this be also reviewed without fail.
In the end, the Government side asked for time out to consult.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/civil-servants-welcome-usd-pay-increase/">The Herald</a>

"Teachers Paid Five Times Less Than Other Civil Servants"

Civil servants say the government has promised to consider increasing the United States dollar component of their salaries and also review the portion paid in Zimbabwe dollars in September this year.
Forty (40) trade unions representing civil servants met Finance and Economic Development Minister Mthuli Ncube in Harare on Monday to discuss salaries and conditions of service.
In a statement after the meeting, which was also attended by Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Paul Mavima and other government officials, Zimbabwe Congress of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU), formerly the Civil Service Apex Council, said:
<blockquote>
The Minister of Finance in response stressed that government treats the welfare of civil servants as a priority but was unequivocal that government does not yet have the capacity to pay the entire salary bill in US dollars.
Government will, however, review the situation in September to see if there is scope to increase the US and as well the Zimdollar components premised on revenue inflows.
He did not rule out the possibility of part US dollar salaries though but was cautious to commit himself.
</blockquote>
Civil servants are currently getting US$175 in allowances, but their salaries are paid in Zimbabwe dollars.
Last week, the majority of civil servants ignored the call to take part in the two-day national strike that was planned for Wednesday and Thursday.
Union leaders later said the strike failed because civil servants were afraid of reprisals from their employer such as docked salaries and omission from future national programmes, among other reasons.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/08/govt-to-consider-increasing-us-for-civil-servants/">NewsDay</a>

Govt Says It Will Consider Increasing USD For Civil Servants

The Government has invited the Apex Council, the union representing all civil servants for a meeting on 11 July 2022.
In a letter addressed to Apex Council chairperson, Cecilia Alexander, dated 6 July 2022, the chairman of the National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC) C Matorera, said the Government will give feedback on the Cost of Living Adjustment proposals by civil servants.
The last NJNC meeting was held in Harare on Friday, 17 June 2022 where the government offered its workers a 100% pay increase which civil servants flatly rejected.
Civil servants are demanding a pre-October 2018 salary level of US$540 a month for the lowest-paid worker.
Secretary-General of the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU), formerly Apex Council, recently said civil servants will only consider a US dollar offer from their employer. He said:
<blockquote>
We gave the government representatives a position that workers are only accepting US$ salary.
They said we don’t have a mandate from the principles to speak to that and they asked for time to consult.
They should just put a mind to it that what can one do with ZWL$, where can you buy, you go to the black market to access US$ as everything now needs forex for example landlords need hard currency, fuel requires the same, passport and schools hence no need for the local currency offer.
If we don’t get US$ we are excluded from the economy.
We flatly rejected the 100% ZWL$ increment and anything to do with the ZWL$ as it will not mean anything especially when the authorities say the effective date will be July 1.
If we negotiate now, by the time that money gets into our account it will not mean anything.
</blockquote>

Govt, Civil Servants' Representatives Meet On 11 July

The Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU), formerly the Civil Service Apex Council, has demanded an apology from the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, George Guvamatanga for his recent remarks on civil servants’ pre-October 2018 salaries.
Addressing the media alongside treasury boss Mthuli Ncube on Monday, Guvamatanga claimed that civil servants never earned US$540 as of pre-October 2018.
ZCPSTU on Wednesday said they were “disturbed” by the comments and demanded that Guvamatanga apologise. The union said:
<blockquote>
We are disturbed by the misleading utterances by the Finance Secretary. He referred to the official exchange rate of 2.5, of which, if he was in the country at that material time, he would know there was only one currency, the USD.
It is our contention that the secretary misinformed the nation and would do well to honourably apologise.
</blockquote>
ZCPSTU has also rejected the 100% salary increment by the government to be effected on 1 July 2022, calling it “a non-event”.
Civil servants and government representatives met almost a fortnight ago under the National Joint Negotiating Committee (NJNC) to deliberate on civil servants’ salaries and conditions of service.
The meeting ended in a deadlock after civil servants rejected a 100 per cent salary hike and instead demanded the restoration of their pre-October 2018 salaries. ZCPSTU said:
<blockquote>
The much-touted ZWL Cost of Living Adjustment to be effected on July 1, 2022, was flatly rejected by the workers at the last NJNC meeting of June 17, 2022, and therefore is a non-event.
At that said NJNC, we advised the government not to bring to the bargaining table a ZWL offer for obvious reasons.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/civil-servants-reject-100-salary-increment/">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

Civil Servants Demand Apology From Guvamatanga

Civil servants say they will not accept a Zimbabwe dollar salary increment and will only consider a US dollar offer from their employer.
Secretary-General of the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU), David Dzatsunga, told Business Times that if they don’t get US dollars, they would be excluded from the economy. Dzatsunga said:
<blockquote>
We gave the government representatives a position that workers are only accepting US$ salary.
They said we don’t have a mandate from the principles to speak to that and they asked for time to consult.
They should just put a mind to it that what can one do with ZWL$, where can you buy, you go to the black market to access US$ as everything now needs forex for example landlords need hard currency, fuel requires the same, passport and schools hence no need for the local currency offer.
If we don’t get US$ we are excluded from the economy.
We flatly rejected the 100% ZWL$ increment and anything to do with the ZWL$ as it will not mean anything especially when the authorities say the effective date will be July 1.
If we negotiate now, by the time that money gets into our account it will not mean anything.
</blockquote>
Last week, civil servants rejected the government’s 100% Zimbabwe dollar salary increment.
The lowest-paid civil servant earns about ZWL$18 000 plus an allowance of US$175.
Another National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC) meeting is expected this week to break the deadlock.
Civil servants are demanding a pre-October 2018 salary level of US$540 a month.
The cost of living for a family of six is now over ZWL$133 000 per month, with the average civil servant earning less than half of that figure.
<h4>More: <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/dont-come-back-with-zwl-offer-again-workers-tell-govt/">Business Times</a></h4>

"Civil Servants Won't Consider A Zimbabwe Dollar Salary Offer"

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) on Friday ordered civil servants to cancel their planned march over poor salaries on the pretext that the situation in the country is tense.
About 16 unions representing civil servants under the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPTSU) had planned to hand over a petition to the government over poor salaries today.
On 26 March, the police wrote to the Unions, allowing the march to go ahead, reported NewZimbabwe.com.
But on Friday morning, three police vehicles with armed anti-riot officers were deployed to the Public Service Association (PSA) building at Livingstone Avenue and Third Street, Harare.
The police officers instructed the civil servants’ representatives to defer the march.
Addressing journalists during a press conference, PCPTSU secretary-general, David Dzatsunga, said:
<blockquote>
We had intended to hold our march to serve the ministries of Labour and Finance respectively and parliament with petitions over civil servants’ salaries, but the police informed us that the situation in the capital is tense.
The police alleged our procession could end up being hijacked by some other unscrupulous elements, leading to an uncontrollable chaotic situation.
It is for that reason that we had to defer the march to sometime soon.
Certainly in the coming week, we should be able to do that action, which is overdue.
</blockquote>
Dzatsunga said they wrote to the Ministry of Public Service and Social Welfare several times requesting an urgent meeting to deliberate on civil servants’ conditions of service. Said Dzatsunga:
<blockquote>
We have written to the ministry of Public Service four times now requesting an urgent meeting.
It is common cause that the current economic environment, the hyper-inflationary environment, and the exchange rate madness that is facing us as a nation, are hitting hard on civil servants and all workers in general.
The ministers have not replied to our correspondence to date. Ministers prefer to talk about our grievances through the press without engaging us.
We believe this is not professional, as we write to them officially.
</blockquote>
He also criticised the Government for suspending teachers who failed to report for duty last term due to incapacitation.
The Government also deducted the teachers’ salaries and summoned them to appear for disciplinary hearings.
Dzatsunga described the move as victimisation and harassment of civil servants by the Public Service Commission (PSC).
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/police-block-civil-servants-march/">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

Police Block Civil Servants’ Demonstration In Harare

Civil servants’ representatives have submitted a request to the Government for a National Joint Negotiating Committee (NJNC) meeting.
NJNC comprises Government and public service representatives under the banner of the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions.
It is a platform where the two parties meet to deliberate on civil servants’ conditions of service.
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Professor Paul Mavima said:
<blockquote>
I am aware that civil servants have requested a meeting of the NJNC.
It will be arranged at the earliest convenience for both parties and in line with the Government’s commitment to always review and improve the conditions of service of civil servants.
</blockquote>
Public Service Commission (PSC) Secretary, Jonathan Wutawunashe, said the Government understands the challenges civil servants are facing. Said Wutawunashe:
<blockquote>
In the normal rhythm of things, civil servants are responding to inflationary pressures and are seeking an improvement in their salaries.
I think we need to commend the civil servants because they are continuing to come to work taking advantage of some cushioning measures taken by the employer.
</blockquote>
Last week, Wutawunashe announced that the Government had released $2.6 billion for tuition fees for teachers’ children. He said:
<blockquote>
Details of 103 556 children of some 52 171 teachers from all the 10 provinces have so far been identified by schools as eligible for this benefit.
In February this year, as a way of improving the welfare of teachers and as part of a host of other incentives extended to civil servants, the Government made an undertaking to pay school fees for up to three biological children per teaching family, paying up to $20 000 per child per term. These payments would be made directly to schools.
Given the sheer scale of the exercise, Government is aware that there may be schools which are yet to furnish the requisite details but has taken the decision to make disbursements in respect of schoolchildren whose details have been verified and submitted by schools while awaiting the completion of the exercise in respect of those whose details may still be outstanding.
For that reason, parents whose children’s details have been provided will shortly receive the benefit in respect of Term 1, which will be followed by the disbursement by the Government of fees due for Term 2.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/talks-underway-to-adjust-civil-servants-salaries">The Sunday Mail</a></h4>

Civil Servants Request A Salaries' Indaba With Govt

Civil servants say they are now able to go to work after the Government awarded them a 20 per cent Zimbabwe dollar salary increment plus an additional US$100 cash allowance, among other incentives.
In an interview with Zimpapers Television Network (ZTN), the secretary for the Public Sector Trade Unions David Dzatsunga said while the salary adjustment is not good enough, it should at least be enough to enable civil servants to return to work. He said:
<blockquote>
We believe that these new measures will certainly make it difficult to justify incapacitation.
With US$175, the RTGS component could amount to an extra US$100 and we are looking at US$375 for the lowest worker on the current obtaining parallel market rate.
I believe that US$375 should be enough, it’s not good enough, it’s not the best, but it should be enough for someone to get to work.
</blockquote>
Teachers downed tools when schools opened for the 2022 first term on Monday citing incapacitation and the Government responded by suspending the striking teachers.
Dzatsunga said they were in negotiations with the Government over the suspension of the teachers. He said:
<blockquote>
We had a fallout on the Government side with the threat to punish teachers who didn’t travel to their workstations because of incapacitation.
They have genuine problems of incapacitation and the divide was too wide between the poverty line and their income.
</blockquote>
Also speaking to ZTN, Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Paul Mavima called for cool heads on both sides for progress’ sake. Said Mavima:
<blockquote>
It’s almost a matter that is sub judice because there are now court challenges and other things like that.
It’s not proper for us to be dragging each other through the courts and it’s not proper for the learners of this country to not be attended to as the Government is making frantic and very genuine efforts to improve the conditions of service of the workers.
I would appeal to everyone to really maintain a position of rationality so that we can move our country forward.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/civil-servants-have-no-justification-to-strike-anymore/">Chronicle</a></h4>

Civil Servants Say Latest Salary Increment Is 'Enough'

The National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC) met this Friday in Harare for the latest round of negotiations towards improving the working conditions of civil servants.
The NJNC comprises Government and civil servants’ representative body, the Apex Council.
In a statement after the meeting, the NJNC said they have agreed on the following:
<ul>
<li>A 20% review on gross emoluments (basic salary + transport allowance + housing allowance+ representation where applicable) backdated to 1 January 2022 and to be paid on February 2022 pay date.</li>
<li>Introduction of USD 100 salary to be paid in hard currency across the board with effect from 1 March 2022. This is up and above the ZWL salary.</li>
<li>Continuation of payment of USD 75 Covid-19 Allowance for civil servants payable in hard currency with effect from 1 January 2022. This brings the total USD monthly pay component to USD.</li>
<li>Introduction of a housing loan guarantee scheme for homeownership available to all civil servants.</li>
<li>Payment of performance advancement awards arrears from 2012 to date with immediate effect.</li>
<li>To improve efficiency in the processing of rebate on duty on motor vehicles imported by civil servants.</li>
<li>Payment of ZWL 20 000 maximum school fees for up to (three) 3 biological children of a teaching family.</li>
<li>Provision of a special once-off transport facility to ferry teachers in both rural and urban areas.</li>
</ul>
Meanwhile, civil servants’ representatives requested the Government to bring back the effective date of implementation of the USD 100 package pay date from the 1st of March to 1 January 2022.
Civil servants further pleaded with the Government not to take action against teachers who fail to report for duty.
The NJNC also agreed that quarterly negotiations will continue.
<h4>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h4>

Govt, Civil Servants Agree On Improved Working Conditions

Civil servants have raised their salary demands from the pre-October 2018 salary of US$520 a month to about US$600 a month due to rising prices of goods and services.
The majority of civil servants are currently earning about ZWL$22 000 (less than US$100 using parallel market rates) on average a month, and US$75 COVID-19 allowance in hard currency.
This is less than half of the poverty datum line which is now $75 000.
Apex Council chairperson, Cecilia Alexander, told Business Times that Government workers now want US$600 a month. She said:
<blockquote>
We have moved from the pre-October 2018 demand of US$520 per month to US$600 per month due to the ever-increasing prices of goods and services.
So, to curb that volatility, we now need to be paid in US$ which is a stable form of a currency.
But I don’t think it will come this month and a phased approach towards the new salary cap will see a worker getting a real value of his or her wage.
</blockquote>
The Zimbabwe dollar continues to lose value against the United States dollar on both formal and informal markets.
The meagre salaries mean that civil servants and the majority of the government workers are now regarded as the working poor.
Alexander said civil servants’ representatives tabled their demands during a National Joint Negotiation Committee (NJNC) meeting that took place two weeks ago.
The government team reportedly appreciated the workers’ reasons for sticking to their position and asked for time out to consult with their principals.
It was also agreed that the issue of civil servants’ salaries should be resolved in the shortest time possible.
<h4>More: <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/civil-servants-table-fresh-demands/">Business Times</a></h4>

Civil Servants Make Fresh Demands

The majority of civil servants have received their US$75 COVID-19 monthly risk allowance for January in cash while pensioners have received their US$30 allowances.
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Paul Mavima confirmed the development, saying the Government was committed to improving the working conditions of its workers. Said Mavima:
<blockquote>
Yes. I can confirm that all those that have been paid, and that is the majority, have received their US$75 allowance, paid into Nostro accounts and accessible as hard cash.
</blockquote>
Civil servants’ representatives welcomed the move by the Government to pay their USD COVID-19 risk allowances in hard cash.
Apex Council deputy secretary-general Gibson Mushangu said civil servants expect the Government to also pay their salaries in foreign currency. Said Mushangu:
<blockquote>
Yes, our members have started receiving the allowances for January. We appreciate the Government for honouring its pledge and we are hopeful and looking forward to a great year where the employer will pay us salaries in foreign currency. That matter is still before NJNC.
</blockquote>
The first National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC) for 2022 was held on 14 January and <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/01/15/outcome-of-government-and-workers-meeting-on-salaries/">the two parties – the Government and civil servants – agreed to meet “in the shortest time possible”.</a>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/government-starts-to-improve-civil-servants-welfare/">Chronicle</a></h4>

Civil Servants Receive COVID-19 Risk Allowance In US Dollars

Representatives from the Government and civil servants are set for another National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC) meeting on Friday with the issue of salaries high on the agenda.
The two parties held their first NJNC meeting of the year on Wednesday where improving the welfare of civil servants took centre stage.
Early reports had indicated that the meeting failed to kick off yesterday as representatives could not connect on Zoom due to connectivity and power challenges.
However, the Permanent Secretary in the Minister of Public service, Labour and Social Welfare, Simon Masanga, said the Government tabled on offer to civil servants and the latter requested another feedback meeting which will be held tomorrow. Said Masanga:
<blockquote>
Yesterday we had a virtual meeting where we deliberated on the offer that the government was putting on the table.
Workers requested to go and consult their membership and come back with the feedback tomorrow on the cost of living adjustment and other non-monetary benefits that government workers are entitled to.
</blockquote>
Chairperson of the Apex Council, the umbrella body of civil servants representatives, Cecilia Alexander, confirmed that they will be meeting with the Government on Friday.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/govt-committed-to-improving-civil-servants-welfare/">ZBC News</a></h4>

Civil Servants, Govt Meet Again Over Salaries

Government representatives and the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) are set to meet this Wednesday for a fresh round of salary negotiations.
Civil servants are cautiously optimistic ahead of the National Joint Negotiating Committee (NJNC) meeting today after the Government paid their 2021 bonuses in US dollars and pledged to pay their COVID-19 allowances in foreign currency.
Speaking to Zimpapers Television Network (ZTN), Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister, Paul Mavima said:
<blockquote>
We have our position but obviously cannot disclose it before we meet with the employees.
Whatever the outcome, we shall go back to Cabinet where the issue will be discussed.
As the employer, we have the best interests of the civil servants at heart.
</blockquote>
ZCPSTU secretary-general David Dzatsunga said they would rather wait to hear what the Government has decided to offer them than celebrate prematurely. Said Dzatsunga:
<blockquote>
We are obviously cautiously optimistic because we are still happy with what is in the kitty and what they are going to bring. But we don’t want to celebrate prematurely.
</blockquote>
Civil servants will from this month receive their US$75 monthly COVID-19 risk allowance in cash as well as pensioners their US$30 allowances.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/civil-servants-govt-salary-talks-on-today/">Chronicle</a></h4>

Civil Servants, Govt Meet For Salary Talks Today

The Government is set to table a fresh salary increment proposal when it meets civil servants’ representatives on Wednesday, a cabinet minister has said.
In an interview with The Sunday Mail, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Paul Mavima said the Government will gradually raise civil servants’ salaries to a point where they match their previous earnings in United States dollars. Said Mavima:
<blockquote>
We have our own position, but obviously, I cannot disclose it to the press before we meet with the employees.
Whatever the outcome, we shall go back to Cabinet where the issue will be discussed. As the employer, we have the best interests of the civil servants at heart.
We have always said that we are committed to their welfare as well as meeting their request for salaries to match the money they used to earn in US dollars.
But it’s a gradual process and considering the progress we have made as well as exchange rate stability; this is the year to consolidate on that progress.
We are meeting them (civil servants) on Wednesday and we will listen to what they want from us.
After the deliberations with the unions, we will then present the matter to Cabinet and pick it up from there.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) secretary-general David Dzatsunga also confirmed that they will meet Government representatives this week. He said:
<blockquote>
We are meeting on Wednesday and that’s when we will be able to tell you the outcome.
But our concerns are genuine and they are well documented, we hope the Government will hear our case.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/better-salaries-for-civil-servants-in-2022">The Sunday Mail</a></h4>

Govt Set To Raise Civil Servants' Salaries

The Progressive Teachers Union Zimbabwe (PTUZ) says the Government’s decision to pay civil servants the COVID-19 risk allowance in United States dollars (USD) does not meet teachers’ expectations as it does not address their grievances.
According to a government circular released by the Public Service Commission (PSC) dated 4 January 2022, civil servants and pensioners would be paid their COVID-19 allowances in foreign currency with effect from January 1 2022.
In the past, the allowances, which are pegged at US$75 and US$30 to civil servants and pensioners, respectively, were converted at the interbank rate and paid in Zimbabwe dollars. They will now be paid in hard cash.
PTUZ secretary-general Raymond Majongwe said the offer is meant to silence civil servants who have been demanding their salaries in US dollars. Said Majongwe:
<blockquote>
The COVID-19 allowance is the same as before but is coming under a different name. What we want as teachers is enough money to take care of our families and pay bills.
The USD$75/ US$30 is merely the government trying to silence us and not addressing the real challenges.
In the event that we accept the allowance, then that means there should be a monthly increment until we reach the October 2018 salaries.
</blockquote>
Chairperson of the Apex Council, Cecelia Alexander, said they are yet to meet the government to discuss the recently announced risk allowance. She said:
<blockquote>
Civil Service Apex Council (CSAC) is yet to meet with the government for further discussion so as to officialise the issued statement on the COVID-19 allowance for the public service workers and pensioners.
</blockquote>
Civil servants have over the past few years demanded the restoration of their pre-October 2018 salaries that were set at just over US$500 per month.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.theindependent.co.zw/2022/01/07/furore-over-civil-servants-usd-allowances/">Zimbabwe Independent</a></h4>

"USD COVID-19 Risk Allowance Meant To Silence Civil Servants"

Teachers unions are planning to go on strike as soon as President Emmerson Mnangagwa announces the date for the re-opening of schools, which remain closed indefinitely.
Teachers say their Zimbabwe dollar salaries have been eroded by inflation and they want the Government to pay them in foreign currency.
Educators Union of Zimbabwe president Tafadzwa Munodawafa told NewsDay that they hope the Government announces the date for the reopening of schools after they receive their January salaries. He said:
<blockquote>
We all know that the government knows that the peanuts paid to us on the 17th of December as bonuses have been long eroded, and it is hoped that if the opening date is announced after the January payday, teachers will then get bus fares to their work stations.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Teachers’ Association (ZIMTA) president Richard Gundane said:
<blockquote>
The solution as we get into 2022 would be to get a dignified component of remuneration in US dollars.
Many educators will fail to report for duty as schools re-open because of salaries that are below the poverty datum line.
</blockquote>
However, the Acting Minister for Primary and Secondary Education Paul Mavima on Monday warned teachers that if they decide to go on strike, the Government will maintain its “No Work, No Pay” policy. Said Mavima:
<blockquote>
It doesn’t matter when schools will open, even if schools open tomorrow or at a later date, we expect all teachers to go back to work and report for duty.
As government, we will maintain the stance that if you don’t come to work, you don’t get paid.
The National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC) is dealing with the issue of conditions of services for all civil servants.
The process of talking to each other must be respected. We do not want a situation whereby one or two teachers’ unions wants to disrupt the system. We will not allow that to happen.
</blockquote>
Secretary to the Public Service Commission (PSC), Jonathan Wutawunashe reminded teachers of the proper channels to air their grievances. He said:
<blockquote>
The correct forum for negotiations between government and civil servants is the NJNC. Those negotiations avoid discriminatory focus on any sector, as they address remuneration and conditions of service for all civil servants.
In the NJNC all civil servants regardless of sector, are represented by the Apex Council which is a federation of public sector unions that include teachers’ unions.
</blockquote>
PTUZ secretary-general Raymond Majongwe insisted that the NJNC is now defunct and should be replaced. Said Majongwe:
<blockquote>
The PSC must respect its own processes and make sure that the law is respected. The NJNC has since run its race and must be replaced as soon as possible. The NJNC is now moribund and must be buried. The new republic must walk the talk.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/01/incapacitation-forces-teachers-to-abandon-exam-classes/">NewsDay</a></h4>

Govt To Maintain 'No Work, No Pay' Policy As Teachers Plan Job Action

Civil servants are hoping that the Government will pay their salaries in 2022 in foreign currency.
In an interview with State media on Saturday, Apex council secretary-general David Dzatsunga said civil servants have a legitimate expectation that the Government will accede to their request for salaries to be paid in forex. Said Dzatsunga:
<blockquote>
Our expectations for the New Year are that we get more or the same as we got with the bonus.
We hope that the Government will move towards making sure that civil servants get US dollar salaries as has been a long-standing demand.
We believe that we also have a legitimate expectation of that.
</blockquote>
In 2021, the Government paid its workers bonuses in foreign currency as a way of cushioning them from rising inflation.
However, Finance and Economic Development Minister Mthuli Ncube said the forex bonuses were a once-off payment and civil servants will continue getting salaries in Zimbabwe dollars.
Zimbabwe Teachers Association (ZIMTA) chief executive officer Sifiso Ndlovu said teachers are concerned with the rising cost of education and the general rise in the cost of living. Said Ndlovu:
<blockquote>
We are already seeing that goods and services have gone up. So, we will engage the Government on matters of teachers’ welfare as we have done in the past.
We also are hoping that the Government would come up with strategies to ensure education becomes accessible to all.
What we are seeing at the moment is that education is increasingly becoming expensive, fees are increasing while stationery is also getting expensive.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/civil-servants-hopeful-their-salaries-will-be-paid-in-forex/">Chronicle</a>

Civil Servants Expect Govt To Pay Their Salaries In Forex

Civil servants are lobbying for a cost of living adjustment (COLA) from their employer, less than a month after receiving bonuses in foreign currency. Civil servants were also paid their December salaries last week.
Speaking in an interview with Business Times, civil service Apex Council deputy secretary-general Gibson Mushangu said they want another cushion before their next paycheck.
Mashangu said without a cushioning allowance, government workers will struggle to pay school fees when schools open in January 2022. He said:
<blockquote>
We appeal to the government to deposit a cushion amount which will take us to the family basket of ZWL$54 000 after factoring in the ZWL$22 000 salaries we got in December.
The salaries which were paid on December 17, 2021, has already been spent due to the fact that our wages are too little.
Our salary of ZWL$22 000 per month has been overwhelmed within six days of payment and it’s very unfortunate that it has come in December and January where we have Christmas, new year and schools opening.
We don’t know what we are going to do there but all we can say is that we have hit the hard times before the festive season with the situation expected to be tougher after the holidays.
</blockquote>
Civil servants are pushing for the restoration of their pre-October 2018 salaries which were about US$520 on average.
Alternatively, they want the Government to pay their pre-October salaries in Zimbabwe dollars converted at the inter-bank rate. Said Mashangu:
<blockquote>
The rate [is now] ZWL$200:US$1 on the parallel market and with our ZWL$22000 we are getting US$110 while based on the auction rate we are getting US$208 per month which is still too low for our needs.
</blockquote>
According to the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ), the cost of living for a family of six was ZWL$54 264.24 in November. It rose from about ZWL$35 000 in June this year.
A police officer who preferred anonymity told Business Times that the Government should consider a serious review of their salaries. Said the police officer:
<blockquote>
As for the basket, it is double my salary therefore I cannot enjoy the festive season later alone preparing for the back to school in early January.
The authorities should increase salaries as we have families to look after.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/govt-workers-demand-another-cushion/">Business Times</a></h4>

Civil Servants Demand Cushioning Allowance

Civil servants are pushing the Government to pay their salaries in foreign currency with renewed confidence after they received forex bonuses in November.
The Apex Council and Government representatives held a National Joint Negotiating Committee (NJNC) meeting on Tuesday to deliberate on the welfare of Government workers.
Speaking to State media on Wednesday, Apex council president Cecelia Alexander said they reiterated their call to be paid salaries in foreign currency. Said, Alexander:
<blockquote>
We had a meeting with the Government team and we stated that we want our salaries to be paid in foreign currency.
We are waiting for Government response. The Government negotiating team indicated that it will come back to us early next month.
Our position is that our salaries should be pegged based on the October 2018 value when a teacher was being paid US$528 and US$440 for the least paid in Government.
</blockquote>
She said the payment of bonuses in forex was proof that the Government now has the capacity to pay salaries in forex.
Civil servants are also lobbying the Government to address transport challenges through increasing Public Service Commission (PSC) buses.
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Paul Mavima said he was yet to get a report from the Government’s team.
Meanwhile, earlier this month, Finance and Economic Development Minister Mthuli Ncube said civil servants will continue receiving their salaries in Zimbabwe dollars.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/civil-servants-push-for-forex-salaries/">Chronicle</a></h4>

Civil Servants Await Govt Response On Forex Salaries Demand

The majority of civil servants, among them teachers, will start receiving their United States dollar bonus payments this week, a cabinet minister has said.
A fortnight ago, the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development announced that this year’s bonus for civil servants and civil service pensioners will be paid in US dollars.
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Paul Mavima told State Media on Saturday that payments will start this week. Said Mavima:
<blockquote>
In fact, the money (bonus) should have come in with the November salary, but it will start reflecting in bank accounts this week or before the end of the month.
Normally it is those in the education sector that start receiving and from my understanding, the bulk of the civil servants will receive their bonus this month and the rest next month.
</blockquote>
In a related development, the National Joint Negotiation Council (NJNC) will meet this week to deliberate on civil servants’ salaries and a possible Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA).
Apex Council secretary David Dzatsunga yesterday confirmed that the meeting has been slated for tomorrow. He said:
<blockquote>
The meeting is now on Monday at 10 am. We are going to discuss the issue of the bonus and the need for a Cost of Living Adjustment.
More importantly on salaries, we want the Government to consider paying us in US dollars as they are going to do with the bonus.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/civil-servants-bonus-payments-start-this-week">The Sunday Mail</a></h4>

Civil Servants Bonus Payments Start This Week - Mavima

The National Joint Negotiation Council (NJNC) is scheduled to meet this month or early December latest to discuss a possible review of civil servants’ salaries.
The NJNC comprises Government representatives and civil servants’ representative body, the Apex Council.
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister, Paul Mavima, on Tuesday, told State media that the envisaged NJNC meeting will come up with a roadmap on the review of civil servants’ salaries. Said Mavima:
<blockquote>
This meeting is supposed to take place sometime either this month or early December and will outline what will happen as far as civil servants’ salaries are concerned.
Maybe they will come up with a roadmap as to when reviews will be done going into 2022.
</blockquote>
In April this year, the Government increased civil servants’ salaries by 25 per cent, and again in July by between 45 per cent and 50 per cent.
Meanwhile, school teachers are planning a full-scale nationwide strike over poor salaries and working conditions.
This was revealed by Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) president Obert Masaraure in an interview with <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/teachers-plot-crippling-strike/">NewZimbabwe.com</a> Wednesday.
Masaraure said the teachers do not want a salary raise but the restoration of their pre-October 2018 scale when they earned above US$500 a month each. He said:
<blockquote>
We are on the ground organising and pushing to that day where we will bring the education sector to a standstill until this government pays our salaries.
Not even a salary increment, we just want the restoration of our pre-October 2018 salaries which were at a minimum of US$520 and we are saying if Mthuli Ncube and Emmerson Mnangagwa think that business will remain normal, come exam time they are going to be shocked with what is coming their way.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/new-national-joint-negotiation-council-to-meet-over-civil-servants-salaries">The Sunday Mail</a></h4>

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