Harare, (New Ziana) – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has paid glowing tribute to Zimbabwean workers, describing them as the backbone for socio-economic transformation, while reaffirming the commitment of his administration to improving labour conditions, fair wages, and inclusive economic growth.
In his address on the eve of International Workers’ Day commemorations on Friday, President Mnangagwa set an optimistic yet pragmatic tone, balancing recognition of workers’ sacrifices with policy-driven assurances aimed at strengthening labour rights and economic stability.
“Labour is the foundation of our socio-economic development,” he said, underscoring the central role workers across sectors play, from informal traders and farmers to miners, teachers and health professionals.
He praised the resilience and dedication of the Zimbabwean workforce, singling out health workers for their tireless service, and educators for their commitment to shaping the nation’s future.
“This day belongs to us all,” he said, in a unifying message that acknowledged the collective contribution of workers to national development.
President Mnangagwa said his administration is guided by constitutional provisions that guarantee labour rights, noting that these are operationalized through legislation such as the Labour Act.
He stressed that the pursuit of decent work remains central to the national development agenda as the country pushes towards its vision to attain upper middle income status by 2030.
President Mnangagwa pointed to economic stabilization measures as key in safeguarding workers’ earnings, citing a “one-digit inflation rate and foreign currency exchange stability” as indicators of progress.
He however acknowledged that workers continue to face challenges due to global economic shocks and supply chain disruptions.
“My government is actively engaging towards fair and sustainable wage frameworks. Dialogue remains our chosen path for win-win solutions,” he said, referencing ongoing engagements under the Tripartite Negotiating Forum.
In a strong stance on labour practices, President Mnangagwa condemned the growing trend of casualization, warning against the abuse of short-term contracts.
“Where work is continuous, employment must be secure,” he said, adding that exploitation disguised as flexibility should be eliminated.
He also underscored the importance of workplace safety, declaring it “non-negotiable” and promising stricter enforcement of occupational health and safety regulations.
On the policy front, President Mnangagwa highlighted the anticipated impact of the National Employment Policy and Formalization Strategy, which aims to integrate informal workers into the formal economy while expanding access to social protection and legal safeguards.
“Formalization is a social justice imperative aimed at restoring pride to millions of hardworking Zimbabweans,” he said.
He further noted efforts to strengthen labour market systems and align education with industry demands, particularly to empower youth and enhance employment opportunities in a modernizing economy.
Addressing labour migration, he said Zimbabwe is promoting “safe, orderly and mutually beneficial” movement of workers, with ongoing international engagements designed to protect citizens abroad while leveraging their skills globally.
He called on employers to uphold high labour standards and urged workers to remain committed to productivity and excellence, emphasizing the importance of social dialogue in fostering stability and progress.
“Together we are the builders of our great motherland… brick by brick, stone upon stone,” he said.
New Ziana
