News

Workers at the financially troubled Zambia Telecommunication (Zamtel), a government-run communications company which employs about 2,700 workers across the country currently operating on a US$32.8 million annual deficit, continue their strike.



The workers went on strike last week demanding improved salaries and conditions of service through their union but Zamtel said it did not have enough money to pay the workers more.



The strike has paralysed the company's communication system, making it difficult for subscribers to make international calls. However, the communication system is not completely down, as some employees are still working



NUCW (National Union of Communication Workers) General Secretary Clement Kasonde said workers meeting resolved to continue with the work stoppage due to the inconclusive negotiations between management and the union. He said management was allegedly delaying the conclusion of the negotiations because they decided to consult the board.



Initial negotiations between Zamtel workers and management were suspended in April after management said the company did not have enough money to increase salaries. The workers went on strike after hearing that the joint negotiation council that was scheduled to take place Oct. 22 failed to take off.



It is announced ZCTU (Zambia Congress of Trade Unions) and NUCW, as well as Zamtel management would today meet in Lusaka to resolve the impasse.