28 Apr 2018 | 03:57 AM UTC
Zimbabwe: Nationwide teachers’ strike beginning May 8
Nationwide teachers’ strike in Zimbabwe beginning May 8; disruptions to academic classes expected, and associated demonstrations possible
Event
On Friday, April 27, a Zimbabwean teachers' union announced a plan to begin a nationwide strike beginning on Tuesday, May 8. The strike is expected to last until the teachers' demands for higher salaries are met. Disruptions to academic classes are expected, and associated demonstrations and consequent heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are possible in Harare and elsewhere in Zimbabwe during the strike.
Context
The Zimbabwe Teachers' Association (ZIMTA), a union comprised of 44,000 teachers and other education personnel, demands that its members receive guarantees of higher salaries before returning to work. ZIMTA has claimed that teachers have not received a raise since 2013, and have been refused the ability to take adequate leave as used to be customary.
Advice
Individuals in Zimbabwe are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
