Unionised workers at the National Health Research and Training Institute (NHRTI), formerly the Tropical Diseases Research Centre (TDRC), have commenced an indefinite sit-in protest, accusing management of failing to adjust their salaries for three consecutive years and paying terminal benefits using outdated 2012 salary scales.
The workers, under the University of Zambia and Allied Workers Union (UNZAAWU), say the continued stagnation of wages has severely affected their welfare amid rising living costs.
Speaking during the protest, UNZAAWU Deputy General Secretary Richard Hanguwa said the workers had exhausted all available avenues of dialogue, leaving them with no option but to take peaceful industrial action.
Mr. Hanguwa noted that despite inflation, increases in food prices, transport costs, rentals and school fees, workers’ salaries have remained unchanged, placing immense pressure on their families.
He said it was demoralising that professionals involved in national health research, training and support services were subjected to economic hardship while contributing to the country’s health sector.
Mr. Hanguwa further demanded that terminal benefits for affected employees be paid at existing salary rates and not the outdated 2012 scale, describing the practice as unjust and unacceptable.
He also called for the immediate application of the Government of the Republic of Zambia transport allowance, stating that transport was a basic necessity for productivity.
Meanwhile, NHRTI UNZAAWU Branch Chairperson Thomas Banda said workers would continue reporting for duty but would not perform any work until their grievances are addressed.
Mr. Banda added that despite alleged intimidation and threats of disciplinary action from management, the union would not back down.
However, NHRTI Director General Dr. Gershom Chongwe has expressed concern over the sit-in, urging workers to return to work, assuring them that management is actively addressing the issues raised.
By Lovemore Sondashi
