Zimbabwe’s national statistics agency, Zimstat, is embroiled in controversy surrounding compensation for its ongoing 2025 Economic Census. Enumerators, the fieldworkers tasked with collecting crucial economic data, are expressing outrage over their daily allowance of $18 (USD equivalent according to the Zimbabwean government’s exchange rate). They argue that this meager sum is insufficient to cover essential expenses like food, transportation, and other incidentals incurred during fieldwork.
Low Pay Fuels Discontent
The issue has caused significant friction, particularly due to allegations that Zimstat managers will receive a daily allowance of $75 (USD equivalent) for up to 10 days per month. These managers will also reportedly benefit from transportation and fuel provisions. Enumerators see this significant disparity in compensation as unfair, especially considering the demanding nature of their work.
“Morale is at an all-time low right now,” confided one enumerator. “This paltry amount is supposed to cover everything from meals to travel between different communities. To make matters worse, it’s paid in local currency at the official exchange rate, which has very little buying power.”
Another enumerator questioned the drastic reduction in the initially proposed daily rate of $60 (USD equivalent). They expressed concern that such a low wage could negatively impact the quality and accuracy of the collected data.
Zimstat Defends Payment Structure, Cites Budgetary Constraints
Responding to the uproar, Zimstat’s public relations department defended the current payment structure, citing budgetary limitations. Mercy Chidemo, the agency’s Public Relations and Communications Manager, explained that the $18 daily rate aligns with the allocated budget for the census, which spans from 2024 to 2026. She further clarified that enumerators will be responsible for commuting from their homes each day and that all local allowances are paid in Zimbabwean currency, with the exception of projects funded by international donors.
When pressed about the seemingly generous allowances for management personnel, Chidemo maintained that these allowances are standard government procedure for employees traveling outside their designated work stations. She dismissed allegations of favoritism, stating that provincial manager positions were filled through advertised interviews.
While Zimstat maintains it is adhering to established protocols, the controversy underscores the importance of transparency and fairness in compensating individuals involved in large-scale data collection initiatives. The significant disparity between enumerator pay and manager allowances has the potential to erode morale and compromise the overall quality of the Economic Census data.
Addressing Concerns and Ensuring Equitable Compensation
To regain public trust and ensure the success of the Economic Census, Zimstat must address these concerns effectively. The agency should strive for a more equitable compensation structure that acknowledges the vital role enumerators play in the data collection process. Open communication and a willingness to consider adjustments to the current pay scheme will be crucial in mitigating the current controversy.
The outcome of this situation will be closely watched, with stakeholders hoping for a resolution that prioritizes fair compensation for all census workers and ensures the accuracy and integrity of the vital economic data being collected.
Source: New Zimbabwe
