The Malawi Congress of Trade Union (MCTU) has called on employers in the country to consider raising salaries for their employees beyond government’s set minimum wage, considering the current economic challenges.
It follows government’s decision to revise the general minimum wage from K551 ($.09) to K687.70 ($1.2).
In a statement made available to Nation Online,
Minister of Labour, Youth and Man Power Development Henry Mussa said the increment is effective 1st October 2015.
In an interview, MCTU Secretary General Pontius Kalichero said despite government raising the general minimum wage by 24.8 percent, disposable income remains minimal as inflation soars.
Kalichero said while MCTU appreciates government’s move on the matter, discussions are ongoing on the matter.
Said Kalichero: “There have been many changes in the country’s economy comparing with the time we were agreeing on the just set standards.”
“I know certain companies and organisations that are viable enough and can pay better than the set standards, I would only urge them to give their employees a consideration of some kind.”
Kalichero said MCTU is also discussing with stakeholders like Employers Consultative Association of Malawi (ECAM) and government to consider setting a sector minimum wage so that employees are able to manage basic needs.
