Mining workers in Zimbabwe have recently received a salary increase of US$3.55 for the period from July to December. However, this announcement has led to widespread dissatisfaction within the sector. The National Employment Council (Nec) for the mining industry confirmed this decision and also noted a previous increase of US$14.20 for the April to June period. Despite these increments, the adjusted wage stands at US$372.75, which is considered inadequate in light of rising costs and economic instability.
Earlier this year, there was a moderate increase in the minimum wage from US$355 to US$369.20. Nevertheless, these adjustments have fallen short of the expectations of the workforce, especially given the challenging economic conditions in Zimbabwe. The country is grappling with severe inflation, leading to a soaring cost of living due to the continuous climb in US dollar pricing and exchange rates.
Justice Chinhema, the secretary-general of the Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Mineral Workers Union (ZDAMWU), expressed deep disappointment with these increments. He criticized the Nec’s decision, describing it as “pathetic” and an “assault” on the hardworking miners who significantly contribute to Zimbabwe’s foreign currency earnings. Chinhema underscored the disparity between the sector’s earnings and the wages of its workers.
The union has outright rejected the new wage structure, arguing that it fails to reflect the current production realities and the economic hardships facing the country. Chinhema highlighted the dire circumstances many workers face, including the inability to provide basic necessities for their families and the added burden of a serious drought affecting the nation.
Additionally, Chinhema lamented the lack of inclusivity in the decision-making process, noting that the increment was finalized without proper consultation with all relevant stakeholders, including ZDAMWU, which is still in the process of being admitted into the Nec’s collective bargaining platform.
The sentiment was echoed by Abraham Kavalanjila, secretary-general of the Professional and General Mine Workers Union of Zimbabwe, who labeled the increment as an “insult” and a “mockery” to the workers. “Nec and AMWUZ plus Chamber of Mines did this outside the law,” he asserted, calling for a reassessment of the wage to at least US$600 per month to ensure a livable wage for the miners.
Mining workers have voiced their rejection of the increment, which they deem insufficient to meet their basic needs. The unions are advocating for a substantial revision of the salary structure, emphasizing that the mining sector, as the backbone of Zimbabwe’s economy, requires fair compensation reflective of its contribution.
As the dissatisfaction among mining workers grows, calls for a more equitable wage structure continue to gain momentum. The unions are urging Nec to revisit the recent increments and align them more closely with the economic realities and needs of the workers, advocating for a minimum salary that not only addresses the high cost of living but also respects the crucial role miners play in the economic fabric of Zimbabwe.
