cross-posted from: https://mander.xyz/post/54640056
The Zimbabwean government has urged Chinese investors to comply with local labour laws and actively participate in the country’s social dialogue structures, including the Tripartite Negotiating Forum (TNF), as Chinese investment in Zimbabwe surpasses US$10 billion.
The call comes as China remains one Zimbabwe’s largest sources of foreign investment, its biggest country creditor, and one of its biggest trading partners.
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Chinese-owned firms have, over the years, faced allegations of labour rights violations and poor working conditions, with several disputes ending up before the courts or labour authorities.
Speaking at the Zimbabwe-China Business Symposium in Harare, Energy and Power Development minister July Moyo, Energy and Power Development minister July Moyo urged Chinese investors to comply with local labour legislation, participate in Zimbabwe’s social dialogue, and engage through the TNF.
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“We prioritise ease of doing business, investor protection and public-private partnerships. Investors must also operate within Zimbabwe’s legal framework and respect our labour laws,” Moyo said.
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An opinion piece at the outlet Zimbabwe News says,
Workers report intrusive security measures, retaliation against labor organizers, and unsafe working conditions … There is clear racism being practiced by the Chinese against Zimbabweans. This is done in the backyard of Zimbabwe …
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It has become difficult to use the word corruption in a sentence without adding Chinese. The Chinese practice serious labour malpractices far more than the injustices experienced during colonialism.
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Miners accuse Chinese companies of paying poverty wages, with some workers going months without pay.
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Chinese corruption is highly protected by the senior government officers and … environmental Damage caused by the Chinese in Zimbabwe resembles the devil’s ground. Chinese mining operations have led to water and soil pollution, habitat loss, and destruction of farmland.
The Chinese do not care as they will be going to their country, leaving behind a trail of destruction. There have been serious Human Rights Abuses, and the government fails to protect its own people.
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Many Chinese mining operations are accused of operating without proper registration, neglecting environmental protections, and benefiting from political connections.
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The Zimbabwe Miners Federation has warned of a potential “revolution” if the government fails to address these abuses.
To normalize the relationship between Chinese employers and Zimbabwean employees, the Zimbabwean government must Enforce Labor Laws without favour.
The government must ensure Chinese companies comply with Zimbabwe’s labor laws, including fair wages, safe working conditions, and workers’ rights.
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