Thousands of Teachers Go Unpaid: Union Cries Foul Over Missing Salaries

Salary Crisis: Thousands Of Teachers Did Not Receive Their Pay Last Week – Union Cries Foul

Thousands of teachers in Zimbabwe reportedly face financial hardship after failing to receive their November salaries and bonuses. The Zimbabwe Teachers’ Association (ZIMTA) has described the situation as a “breach of contractual obligations” and demanded immediate action from the government.

Also Read: Owning Two or More Dogs Could Land You in Prison: City of Harare Issues Stern Warning

“Missing Teachers’ Salaries a Breach of Trust”

Zimlive reports that ZIMTA president Akuneni Maphosa criticised the government’s failure to disburse the local currency component, known as the ZiG, calling it a violation of agreed terms. “The ZiG component is a fundamental part of our agreed-upon remuneration package,” Maphosa said in a statement on Tuesday. “Its exclusion constitutes a breach of the terms of employment and an erosion of trust between employees and the employer.”

According to Maphosa, teachers rely on the ZiG component to meet critical financial needs, especially as year-end expenses pile up. He warned that the delay could damage morale and evoke memories of Zimbabwe’s hyperinflationary crisis in 2007-08.

Growing Frustration

ZIMTA has accused the government of a lack of transparency, as no explanation has been given for the missing payments. “The absence of this payment has left many teachers unable to meet their financial obligations, particularly at a time when economic pressures are heightened,” Maphosa added.

Treasury recently admitted to financial strain, citing a “substantial imbalance” between government receipts and expenditures. As a result, bonus payments are being staggered across November and December.

Demands for Action

ZIMTA has issued a stern warning to the government, demanding the immediate release of the ZiG component and a formal explanation for the delay. “We expect and deserve timely and full payment of all components of our remuneration,” Maphosa said. “We trust the employer will address this complaint promptly to restore confidence.”

The union has also hinted at escalating the matter through legal action or collective demonstrations if the issue is not resolved within five days.

Meanwhile, Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube recently devalued the ZiG by 43 percent to address disparities between official and parallel exchange rates. However, this move has done little to ease the financial strain on civil servants.

ZIMTA remains firm in its stance, calling for dialogue and good-faith negotiations to prevent further breaches. “We are dedicated teachers and civil servants, and we expect the government to uphold its commitments,” Maphosa said.

The post Thousands of Teachers Go Unpaid: Union Cries Foul Over Missing Salaries appeared first on iHarare News.