By Dennis Ndlovu | Zim GBC News
The Government has intensified labour law enforcement and workplace monitoring to strengthen the protection of workers’ rights, particularly in industries dominated by foreign investors, according to the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Dr Edgar Moyo.
In an interview with Zim GBCNews during the Ministry’s Strategic Planning Workshop held recently in Bulawayo, Hon Moyo revealed that the number of workplace inspections conducted this year has surpassed all previous records a sign of government’s growing determination to clamp down on labour violations and unfair employment practices.
“We are doing a lot. If you look at our inspection statistics, you’ll see that this year we’ve carried out far more than ever before. This increase directly responds to rising reports of worker abuse,” Moyo said.
The Minister acknowledged that some international critics have accused Zimbabwe of being overly stringent in its labour protections but insisted that the government will continue to uphold its legal and moral duty to defend workers.
“Investors entering Zimbabwe must comply with our laws. Our inspectorate is vigilant in ensuring that. While we can’t be everywhere at once, our officers are ready to act swiftly when reports of abuse surface,” he stated.
To bolster monitoring, the Ministry has introduced inter-ministerial inspection teams that include officials from the National Social Security Authority (NSSA), the police, and other key ministries such as Mines, particularly in mining regions. These joint teams are tasked with conducting comprehensive inspections and ensuring adherence to labour standards.
Dr Moyo also announced that labour officers have been deployed to the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA) to orient new investors on the country’s labour regulations and to emphasize the importance of treating workers with dignity and fairness.
“At ZIDA, every new investor is briefed by a labour officer on our labour laws and the respect our workers deserve,” he said.
“Investors should not come to Zimbabwe solely for resources they must also respect our people and our laws.”
He further warned that companies found violating labour laws would face prosecution, and in severe cases, risk having their licenses revoked.
He reiterated that the government’s mission is to promote fair business practices while protecting workers’ welfare.
“Our focus is on ensuring compliance and upholding the dignity of every worker,” he said.
“When investors honour our laws and value our people, it creates a healthier and more sustainable investment environment.”
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