UZA: Climate change, low wages threaten Zim workers’ wellbeing
Providence Moyo
The United Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA) has highlighted the urgent need to address the escalating challenges faced by workers in Zimbabwe in the wake of a rapidly changing climate.
Drawing attention to the intersection of environmental shifts and workplace well-being, the opposition party in a statement to mark Workers’ Day, urged for immediate action to safeguard the safety and health of workers across various sectors.
“Our workers in Zimbabwe are facing new hazards and risks to their safety and health due to climate change,” UZA emphasized. “From prolonged droughts in the agriculture sector to heightened risks in industries such as construction, mining, and manufacturing, it is imperative that we prioritize robust safety protocols and emergency preparedness to mitigate the impacts of climate-related disasters.”
Speaking specifically about agricultural workers, the statement highlighted the extreme conditions they endure without adequate protections against climate-related dangers such as heat stress and pesticide exposure. The party stressed the importance of comprehensive training, access to protective gear, and sustainable farming practices resilient to climate shocks to ensure the well-being of those toiling in the agriculture sector.
Beyond the challenges posed by climate issues, the United Zimbabwe Alliance also addressed the pressing issue of poor remuneration faced by many workers. “Despite their hard work, many workers struggle to make ends meet due to wages that fall far below a living wage,” the statement noted. The party called for concerted efforts to address economic instability and ensure that workers are adequately compensated for their contributions.
In a call for meaningful reforms, the opposition party emphasized the need to strengthen labor laws and ensure fair treatment, decent working conditions, and access to essential social protections for workers. “Workers must be afforded the rights and protections they deserve, including access to healthcare, housing, and education,” the United Zimbabwe Alliance stated.
The statement also touched on the concerning trend of labour flight, where skilled workers are seeking opportunities abroad due to better prospects. This brain drain deprives Zimbabwe of valuable human capital and talent, further exacerbating the economic challenges faced by the nation.
As Zimbabwe commemorates Worker’s Day, the United Zimbabwe Alliance urged a collective commitment to creating safer, more equitable, and sustainable working conditions for all workers. The party called for a future where workers have the right to a safe and healthy working environment and a good life, reaffirming the invaluable contributions of workers to society.
