Two workers’ unions at the University of Zambia (UNZA) have expressed concern over stalled 2025 salary negotiations, warning that continued delays could trigger industrial unrest, as employees are currently working without valid conditions of service.
UNZA Professional Staff Union (UNZAPROSU) President Likezo Pumulo and UNZA Allied Workers Union (UNZAAWU) General Secretary Mupuna Moonga have called on the Emoluments Commission to urgently resolve the matter, cautioning that they may no longer guarantee industrial harmony if the issues remain unaddressed.
Speaking at a joint press briefing in Lusaka, the union leaders revealed that their demands were submitted in June 2024. However, negotiations have failed to progress due to delays by the Emoluments Commission in issuing salary parameters.
The unions also argued that UNZA, as a public institution, should not be evaluated based on profit-making criteria.
They urged the government to fully fund the university’s wage bill, in line with practices in other SADC countries.
They further raised concerns over unpaid gratuities and pension contributions, some of which date back to 2013.
By Nicole Namwinga
