According to the National Social Security Authority, the majority of the farmers now operating on grabbed commercial farms have failed to register their enterprises and workers, and have not remitted contributions and premiums in terms of the Pensions and Other Benefits Scheme and the Accident Prevention and Workers Compensation Insurance Fund.”
“The continued non compliance now threatens the welfare and social security of agricultural workers, who are one of the most vulnerable groups among the working class,” says a NSSA statement.
The General Agriculture and Plantation Union of Zimbabwe says workers are struggling since the chaotic and racist land reform programme, with the new farmers failing to pay them reasonable wages.
"We have over 20 000 members and life for them is hard, last year we agreed with the farm organisations that they would improve the welfare of the workers but they have not done that, life at the farms is terrible," said Ndaizivei Kamoto, spokesperson for GAPWUZ.
On average farm labourers earn $50 a month. The poverty datum line of $504 for a family of six. Because their bosses are not registered with NSSA their future prospects are bleak.
NSSA, which gives pensions to ex-workers, has given the farmers until the end of this month to ensure compliance. It says inspectors will embark on intensive enforcement of the law and farmers faced surcharges and penalties of up to 50%. Non compliance is a criminal offense which attract a heavy fine or prison sentence or both.
Post published in: Zimbabwe News