Harare, (New Ziana)- The government is under pressure to introduce tax relief measures for civil servants who are struggling to keep up with the rising cost of living.

During Wednesday’s parliamentary session, Corban Madzivanyika, the legislator for Mbizo raised concern over the disparity between civil servant salaries and the cost of living, which currently stands at around USD500 for a family of four. He noted that most civil servants are earning less than USD300, making it difficult for them to make ends meet.

“Does the Government have any other tax relief measures in place to reduce the load which these civil servants are carrying? Examples would be to reduce their taxes for the pay-as-you-earn,” he asked.

In response, the leader of government business in Parliament, and Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Ziyambi Ziyambi, said some of the workers’ concerns will be dealt with in the 2026 national budget.

“It is indeed a very good question, which I believe we should be able to tackle this coming November when the budget is presented. I would urge the Hon. Member to pose that particular question during the budget session with a view to persuading the executive to ensure that we are aligned with what he is saying,” he said.

He also highlighted that salary negotiations are ongoing under the Tripartite Negotiation Forum (TNF), which brings together the Government, the Ministry of Public Service and Labour, and worker representatives.

“The representatives of workers are satisfied with the proceedings that are happening as of now, and I think we need to give that process a chance,” he added.

New Ziana