By JACKSON MAPAPAYI
Over 2, 800 unionised workers at FQM Trident Ltd have been offered a seven percent pay rise.
The employees have also been offered 6.5 percent pension contribution, 7.5 percent shift differential, increased education allowance from K800 to K1, 500 and remote allowance from K400 to K600 respectively.
The agreement will run from 1st January this year to December 2024.
This came to light during the collective bargaining unit agreement signing ceremony between management and the four unions namely; NUMAW, MUZ, UMUZ and MAWU respectively.
And FQM Trident Ltd acting General Manager Frederick Wouters said the agreement is a milestone in the mining company’s journey to improve the livelihood of its employees in what he termed as tough economy.
Mr Wouters said it is the belief of management that the seven percent increase in basic salaries awarded to eligible unionised workers will significantly cushion their financial pressures.
He said FQM Trident believes in adding value to its employees in order to remain productive by supporting skills development for its employees through offering training and education support.
“Overall, we recognise and reward outstanding performance as this signifies the important role that each employee makes towards production,” said Mr Wouters.
He said when staff remain productive, the company can be sure of the short, medium and long term trickle effects of the mine onto the national treasury, communities and employees.
Mr Wouters said the company appreciates the union’s commitment, efficiency and maturity in the decisive bargaining process to close the undertaking.
“For management, we remain committed to the cordial relations with the unions and we encourage you to continue playing the important role of promoting harmony with the workforce for a common good,” he said.
And NUMAW president Saul Simujika who spoke on behalf of other union leaders said the unions have welcomed the pay rise though the percentage is not what they were expecting.
Meanwhile, NUMAW branch chairperson Charles Mwashi said it is the desire of the employees through the unions to have a win – win situation between the employer and the employees.
“We therefore appeal that let the open door policy continue on the side of management,” he said.
