By Staff Reporter

The Zimbabwe Domestic and Allied Workers Union (ZDAWU) has slammed the government for gazetting poverty wages for the industry.

The government has approved new minimum wages for all categories of domestic workers, announced on 16 June 2026 with immediate effect. The least paid is set to get USD90-00 per month.  

ZDAWU deputy general secretary Toindepi Dhure said the government was not sincere towards alleviating the plight of domestic in this harsh economy. He added it is high time the sector establishes a national employment council to holistically address challenges in the sector.  

“This is a condemnation to slavery. These are not wages, but a price tag on domestic workers’ dignity. Domestic workers reject this humiliation’” said Dhure.

In a post shared after a Cabinet meeting on 16 June 2026, the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting said the Cabinet had approved revised wages and employment conditions for domestic workers and employees in unclassified operations.

“Cabinet approved the review of minimum wages and related conditions of employment for domestic workers and workers in unclassified operations,” read the statement.

It added that the minimum wage for workers in unclassified operations had been set at US$270-00 payable in local currency.

Accordingly, domestic workers and yard workers or gardeners will earn US$90-00 per month, Cooks and housekeepers will receive US$99-00, while child, disabled and aged minders will earn US$108-000. High earners in the sector, disabled and aged minders who hold a Red Cross certificate will earn US$117-00 per month.