By Dumisani Ndlovu
A nationwide strike by Printflow employees has brought operations to a grinding halt, with workers protesting unpaid September salaries and management’s failure to comply with a court order.
The company, formerly known as Government Printing and Stationery, employs 189 workers across Zimbabwe, with 120 stationed at its Harare headquarters. Workers claim management has ignored their long-standing grievances, prompting the job action.
“We have received no communication from management regarding our concerns,” said a worker, who wished to remain anonymous. “The prices of basic commodities have skyrocketed, making life unbearable for us.”
The strike follows a January Supreme Court order directing Printflow to reinstate housing and transport allowances unilaterally removed in August 2020. Management’s failure to comply has escalated tensions.
Furthermore, workers have not received a salary increase since January 2023, despite a directive from the National Employment Council (NEC) for an 8% wage hike. The company applied for an exemption and later scrapped the COVID-19 allowance, which had become a crucial lifeline for employees.
In a letter dated September 10, 2024, employees notified management of their intention to begin a sit-in starting on September 30 if their grievances were not addressed.
A meeting between management, the workers’ committee, and representatives from the NEC and Zimbabwe Graphic Workers Union (ZGWU) is underway.
The strike underscores the growing tensions between Printflow management and its employees, who face increasing difficulties in coping with rising costs for essentials like medical care and school fees.
As the situation unfolds, the fate of Printflow’s operations and its employees’ welfare hangs in the balance.
