AMH Staff Raise Concerns After US$50 Payment Following Prolonged Salary Delays

AMH employees have raised concerns after receiving a once-off US$50 payment following prolonged salary delays, highlighting growing labour and sustainability challenges in Zimbabwe’s private media sector (image source)

HARARE — Employees at Alpha Media Holdings (AMH), one of Zimbabwe’s largest privately owned media groups, have raised concerns after receiving a once-off US$50 payment ahead of Christmas, following extended delays in salary payments throughout the year.

Several employees told Southerton Business Times that the payment was made only days before the festive season and came after months without regular remuneration. Workers said the amount has left many struggling to meet basic household needs during a period typically associated with higher expenses.

According to staff members who spoke on condition of anonymity, some senior personnel are understood to have received higher amounts, although the company has not publicly clarified the structure or criteria of the payment. “This amount does little to ease the pressure many employees are facing,” one staff member said. “While we appreciate any effort made, the broader issue of unpaid salaries remains unresolved.”

AMH operates multiple print and digital media platforms and, like many news organisations, has faced economic headwinds including declining advertising revenues, currency volatility and rising operating costs. Employees acknowledged these challenges but said the prolonged absence of predictable income has placed significant strain on staff welfare. Some workers reported difficulties meeting essential expenses such as rent, school fees and medical costs, with others indicating they have relied on alternative income sources while continuing to fulfil their professional duties.

Concerns have also been raised about internal communication. Employees said they would welcome clearer and more consistent updates from management regarding the company’s financial position and timelines for settling salary arrears. There has been increasing internal discussion around leadership accountability and governance, although specific allegations against individuals could not be independently verified. Staff members noted that morale within the organisation has declined amid ongoing uncertainty.

Efforts to obtain comment from AMH management were unsuccessful at the time of publication. Southerton Business Times remains open to publishing the company’s response or clarification should it be provided. The situation reflects broader pressures facing Zimbabwe’s private media sector, where sustainability challenges continue to affect both business operations and labour relations. Industry observers note that resolving wage delays and strengthening internal communication are critical to maintaining newsroom stability and public trust.