By Mercy Matonga
Professional Drivers Union of Malawi has expressed dissatisfaction with the recently gazetted minimum wage, threatening to go on strike again if employers refuse to comply.
The newly gazetted wages for companies, institutions and domestic workers, effective February 1 2024, were announced by the government on January 19 2024, through Minister of Labour Agness NyaLonje.
The newly gazetted wages did not match the request of truck drivers, who were seeking K500,000 for international bulk driver positions following the 44 percent devaluation that took place in November 2023.
The newly gazzeted wages fall in line with the December 2023 meeting, where the Minimum Wage Committee of the Tripartite Labour Advisory Council (TLAC) resolved that the minimum wage for truck drivers below 30 tonnes, which was at K60,000.00 per month, be increased to K104,500.00 per month.
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The minimum wage for local truck drivers who drive 30 tonne vehicle or more was raised from K100,000.00 to K167,500 per month during the meeting.
It was also decided at the meeting to raise the monthly salary of international truck drivers who transport 30 tonnes from K140,000.00 to K234,500.00.
Speaking to Business Times, Truck Drivers Vice President Francis Mkandawire said what has happened is not fair.
“To say the truth, we are not happy with what has been released; we are surprised about where they are getting these figures because we and the owners of the cars who employ us agreed on K300,000 for those who ferry goods outside the country; so, we are not happy with the new wages.
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“Following what has happened, we are going to sit down with the owners to see how we are going to move forward. If we do not agree, we will go on strike again because we agreed on this,” Mkandawire said.
Section 54 of the Employment Act (2000) gives powers to the Minister of Labour in consultation with organisations of employers and to set minimum wages with due respect to the agreements.
In a separate interview, Malawi Congress of Trade Unions President Charles Kunchenga said they are happy with the newly released minimum wage as it reflects what they have been advocating for.
“We have been advocating for a 100 percent increase; the new gazet represents 90 percent; this is a win-win deal. As a union, we are pleased,” Kumchenga says.
Truck drivers in Malawi have been fighting for higher pay due to the demanding nature of their jobs, poor working conditions and lengthy travel time.
