Cabinet Approves New Minimum Wages for Domestic Workers and Unclassified Employees

HARARE — The Government has approved an increase in the minimum wage for domestic workers and employees in unclassified operations, with the new rates taking immediate effect. The wage review was approved by Cabinet following recommendations from the tripartite Wages and Salaries Advisory Council (WASC) and was presented by the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Edgar Moyo.

According to the government, the minimum wage for domestic workers has been increased from US$85 to US$90, while employees working in unclassified operations sectors not covered by National Employment Councils (NECs) will now earn a minimum wage of US$270.

The revised wages are payable in local currency at the prevailing exchange rate.

Speaking during a post-Cabinet media briefing on Tuesday, the government said the review was conducted in terms of Section 19 of the Labour Act [Chapter 28:01], which empowers authorities to review minimum wages and conditions of employment for specified categories of workers.

“Cabinet noted and approved the review of minimum wages and related conditions of employment for domestic workers and workers in unclassified operations as presented by the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Honourable Edgar Moyo,” a government spokesperson said.

“The minimum wage for domestic workers will be US$90.”

The government said the review followed consultations and recommendations from the Wages and Salaries Advisory Council, which brings together representatives of government, business, and labour.

The revised wage schedule introduces differentiated minimum wages based on the nature of domestic work performed. Under the new structure:

• Yard workers and gardeners will earn a minimum of US$90 per month.

• Cooks and housekeepers will receive US$99 per month.

• Child minders, disabled carers and aged minders will earn US$108, up from US$95.

• Disabled or aged minders holding a Red Cross certificate will receive US$117, up from US$100.

The increases represent an effort to align remuneration with the varying levels of responsibility and skills required for different domestic work roles.

Domestic workers remain among the lowest-paid categories of employees in Zimbabwe and are not covered by sector-specific collective bargaining arrangements administered through National Employment Councils. As a result, periodic reviews conducted through the Wages and Salaries Advisory Council remain the primary mechanism for adjusting their wages and employment conditions.

Labour experts have long argued that domestic workers play a critical role in supporting households and the broader economy, yet often receive limited legal and financial protection compared to workers in formally organised sectors.

The latest wage review comes amid continued discussions around workers’ welfare, cost-of-living pressures, and the need to improve income security for low-paid employees. Government officials said the revised wage structure seeks to provide greater protection for vulnerable workers while ensuring employers have clear guidance on minimum remuneration standards.

Zimbabwe domestic worker minimum wage