Harare (New Ziana) – Two main trade unions on Tuesday urged workers from all corners of the country to attend May Day celebrations lined up in various parts of the country on May 1.
Every 1st of May, International Labour Day also known as Worker’s Day, is celebrated to spread awareness about the struggles of the working class of society and also seen as an opportunity to recognize the contribution of the workers.
The Zimbabwe Federation of Trade Unions (ZFTU) and the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions said a lot of festivities have been lined up for the day when workers get recognized for their contributions.
ZFTU secretary general Kenias Shamuyarira said while a host of activities will be done in several parts of the country, the main celebration will be in Chipinge.
“Our main celebrations will be at Jopa Women’s ground in Chipinge where we expect plus or minus 5000 people including former workers from Walton Timbers, Tanganda Tea Estates, Banana Estates and some from as far as Tongat Hullets and surrounding commercial farms.
“We will also have a lot from the informal sector. People may ask why in Chipinge, it falls in line with the idea of devolution of bringing important events to every corner of the country,” he said.
Shamuyarira said guest of honour at the occasion, Manicaland Minister of State Mishek Mugadza, will give a key note address while ZFTU president Alfred Makwarimba and invited top government officials from the Ministry of Labour will also have a chance to address the crowd.
On the entertainment front, Allan Chimbetu will be the star attraction, leading a well lined up team of upcoming local artists.
ZFTU theme for 2024 is ‘Working class demanding for a radical inclusivity in all economic policies against extractive, parasitic capital.’
ZCTU secretary general Japhet Moyo said workers under his union will congregate in 17 districts across the country, with main celebrations at Gwanzaura Stadium in Harare.
“We will be joining the rest of the world in commemorating May day celebrations, we will congregate at 17 Districts across the country.
“The main attraction will be in Harare at Gwanzura Stadium where a government representative and our president will give key note addresses. We also expect several organisations who will also have a chance to give solidarity messages” he said.
Moyo said various entertainment activities have been lined up at the centers where commemorations will be taking place and urged people to come in numbers.
ZCTU’s theme is ‘Workers demand an inclusive Zimbabwe that is free from poverty, corruption and oppression: Arise workers Arise’
“I urge people to attend as It is a day of reflection of how we have been engaging with employers and authorities
It gives us time to chat on way forward on improving our welfare as workers
“Regardless of challenges workers face, we get to chat on how best we can move forward,” said Moyo.
New Ziana
