Civil servants have started receiving part of their annual bonuses as the government fulfills its commitment to provide a 13th cheque.
Since last Friday, increased activity has been observed at banks and major supermarkets as recipients withdrew their bonuses and went shopping.
The government announced the phased payment of bonuses, beginning in November. The first batch to receive payments included the security services, followed by health workers, educators, and other civil servants. Traditional leaders and their messengers will also receive bonuses, as was the case in previous years.
“We initially agreed to spread the bonus payments over two months,” explained Simon Masanga, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare.
Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) president, Cecilia Alexander, confirmed the rollout of the payments. She noted that uniformed forces were the first to receive their 13th cheques, with teachers expected to follow suit this week.
“We are pleased that the government has honored its promise to pay bonuses, as discussed during the National Joint Negotiating Council meeting,” Alexander said.
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The government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving conditions for public sector employees, introducing incentives such as affordable housing, transportation, and vehicle duty rebates in recent years. This has strengthened the relationship between the government and civil servants, with dialogue playing a key role in resolving issues.
In Bulawayo, reports indicate that employees in the security and health sectors began receiving bonuses last week. Apex Council Secretary-General David Dzatsunga acknowledged the payment but emphasized the need for continued dialogue to enhance civil servants’ welfare.
“Yes, civil servants have started receiving the 50 percent bonus as announced. The uniformed forces were paid first, followed by education workers, and others will follow. While we appreciate the bonuses, there is still work to be done to meet the desired salary benchmarks, such as the US$840 target,” Dzatsunga said.
The initial 50 percent of bonuses is being paid alongside November salaries, with the remaining half scheduled for December. This phased approach aims to reduce pressure on the banking system and minimize long queues.
