Story by Tendai Munengwa
HUNDREDS of workers from across Zimbabwe have gathered in Harare to commemorate the 2026 International Workers’ Day, celebrating the vital role of labour in national development.
Observed annually on 1 May, International Workers’ Day recognises the contributions of workers while highlighting the importance of protecting labour rights, promoting fair wages, and strengthening social protection systems.
This year’s commemorations are being held under the theme: “Honouring the Dignity of Labour–Defending Workers’ Rights, Fair Wages and Social Protection for All.”
The event has brought together members of various labour unions and worker representative bodies from across the country.
It is being hosted by the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions and the Zimbabwe Health APEX Council, in collaboration with the Public Service Commission and the Health Service Commission.
Deputy Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Honourable Mercy Dinha presided over the commemorations.
“We are happy that hundreds of workers converged here and their unions have exhibited at their stands – as government we always have open room dialogue for workers and we always want to improve their welfare and dignity- we are very happy that our workers union this time around are apolitical. We have come up with training packages like the rebates to import cars free of duty and training which will see all employees trained so that when they retire, they will have a shoulder to fall on,” she said.
The gathering underscores the critical contribution of workers to Zimbabwe’s economic growth, public service delivery and broader development agenda.
The Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions is appreciative of the cordial relations existing between employees and government.
“We are happy that as the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions and the Zimbabwe Health APEX Council, in collaboration with the Public Service Commission, Health Service Commission and the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, we have hosted this year’s May Day. The day comes at time when our engagements with government are improving although we continue to dialogue on issue of Job Evaluations- we have accepted the salaries and wages increment but we feel government can still do more,” President of Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions Cecilia Alexander Cecilia Alexandra said.
It also provides an important platform for engaging on key labour issues, including workplace rights, remuneration, occupational welfare and social security.
As Zimbabwe joins the rest of the world in observing May Day, the commemorations serve as a reminder of the enduring value of labour and the need to uphold the dignity, rights and wellbeing of all workers.
