The Zimbabwean government on Tuesday announced a 40-percent salary raise for civil servants, effective from Nov. 1, 2020.
This came following weeks of a work stoppage by teachers who have been demanding better pay and improved conditions of service.
Addressing a post-cabinet media briefing on Tuesday, Information Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said the salary increase will be awarded to Deputy Director grade and below, while the teachers will also get an additional 10-percent risk allowance.
“The new basic salary package for the teacher is now 18,237 Zimbabwe dollars (223 U.S. dollars), which is above the Poverty Datum Line,” said Mutsvangwa, noting the lowest paid civil servant will receive a salary of 14,528 Zimbabwe dollars (178 dollars).
A majority of teachers at public schools have not been reporting for duty since schools reopened in September after a six-month shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, demanding a minimum salary of 520 dollars per month.
The government last awarded its civil servants a pay increase in June this year, in addition to a 75-dollar COVID-19 allowance per month.
