ZIMBABWE
Zimbabwe’s Public Servants have been granted pay increases of between 25 per cent and 29 per cent as part of a US$400 million (A$564 million) cost of living adjustment.
Under the deal, which comes after months of haggling, a PS employee earning US$441 (A$622) a month will now be paid US$570 (A$804), while those currently getting US$519 (A$732) will earn US$649 (A$916).
Initially, PS employees were demanding a minimum salary of US$1,700 (A$2,399) and later demanded US$3,000 (A$4,234) when the Government devalued the local currency.
While representing a significant rise from the US$160 million (A$226 million) offered by the Government at the initial stage of negotiations a few months ago, the new offer does not give anything like the rises the unions sought.
In a statement signed by both the leader of the Apex Council of trade unions, Cecilia Alexander (pictured) and Government representative, Simon Masanga, the two parties said the package would be reviewed in June.
“Government has agreed that a cost of living adjustment of US$400 million be effected across the board for all members of the Public Service with effect from 1 April 1 to 31 December,” the statement said.
The Government said the US$400 million package would immediately cushion its employees amid the continued rise in the cost of living.
During the negotiations, PS employees were divided on the way forward, with some advocating for a strike while others fiercely opposed it, fearing it would be hijacked by politicians in the aftermath of anti-Government protests in January.
Teachers did go on strike, but the action was called off after a few days to allow room for negotiations.
Harare, 24 March 2019
