Story by Owen Mandovha
ZIMBABWE’S construction boom has driven significant growth across the brickmaking value chain, with more than 10 000 people now employed by brick and clay products companies.
The expansion has seen the National Employment Council (NEC) for the Brickmaking and Clay Industry grow from 15 registered firms employing fewer than 2 500 workers five years ago to 123 companies employing more than 10 000 people.
In response to the sector’s rapid growth, the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare has engaged employee representatives through the NEC to ensure workers benefit from the industry’s expansion while safeguarding labour rights.
Senior Labour Officer in the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Ms Christine Murambwi said Government remains committed to protecting workers as the sector continues to expand.
“We are here to assure you that the Government will ensure that your rights are respected so that you are not left behind.”
NEC for the Brickmaking and Clay Industry Secretary-General, Ms Ella Munemo, said the industry’s growth reflects the country’s infrastructure development momentum under the Second Republic.
“The last six years have witnessed growth in companies entering the brickmaking industry. It is worth noting that there may be a lack of compliance by some employers in respecting workers’ rights, so we are conscientising them on the need to know their rights.”
Brick and Clay Products Workers Union of Zimbabwe president Mr Amon Mdizizila welcomed the sector’s expansion but said workers must also share in its benefits.
“We are excited that jobs are being created, but at the same time, we need to benefit from this trajectory by knowing our rights.”
With more than 10 000 people now employed in the brickmaking and clay products sector, the construction boom continues to generate thousands of additional jobs across the broader infrastructure value chain as Zimbabwe advances towards its Vision 2030 upper-middle-income economy target.
