The Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Mineral Workers Union (ZDAMWU) says workers are looking to 2026 with expectations that government will honour existing social dialogue commitments and address wage and tax concerns affecting employees’ livelihoods.
Speaking on workers’ outlook for the year ahead, ZDAMWU Secretary General Justice Chinhema said employees expect government to implement agreements reached under the Tripartite Negotiating Forum (TNF), describing the platform as central to meaningful engagement between labour, business and the state.
Chinhema said workers are also calling for the gazetting of a national minimum wage of at least US$300 or its equivalent in local currency. He noted that such a benchmark would be particularly important for workers in sectors without National Employment Councils (NECs), while also providing a reference point for wage negotiations across industries.
According to the union, failure to set a minimum wage and delays in implementing TNF outcomes risk weakening the social dialogue process at NEC level, where collective bargaining is meant to take place.
The union further urged government to review the current income tax regime, arguing that existing tax levels significantly reduce workers’ disposable income. Chinhema said many employees are left struggling to meet basic needs by the end of each month.
Despite relative stability in inflation, the union said wages have remained low and stagnant, failing to keep pace with the cost of living. Chinhema added that many salaries are below the requirements for meeting basic family needs, underscoring the need for adjustments that reflect prevailing economic conditions.
As 2026 approaches, the union maintains that respecting the TNF framework, introducing a gazetted minimum wage, and reviewing taxation would provide a foundation for improved worker welfare and sustainable labour relations.
