05 October 2007

HARARE (AFP) — Zimbabwean teachers have called off a strike for better wages after reaching a deal with government, a union official said on Thursday. Zimbabwe Teachers' Association (ZIMTA) president Tendai Chikowore said an agreement had been reached with President Robert Mugabe's government on conditions, without giving further details.

"We are pleased to announce that workers's side and the government side have agreed on the areas which had led to teachers going on strike, with effect from October 1," Chikowore said in a statement. Teachers had demanded pay rises linked to the rate of inflation -- currently running at more than 6,500 percent -- as most were earning less than the official poverty threshold.

The strike came as students across the country prepared for final examinations to be held at the end of October. The southern African country is in the midst of an economic crisis marked by the world's highest rate of inflation, widespread food shortages and high unemployment.

Teachers are migrating to neighbouring Botswana, Mozambique and South Africa, with many taking menial jobs to earn money to support their families back home. Those who remain often have to get a second job, like selling popcorn and sweets, to supplement their income.

Nehanda Radio: Zimbabwe's first 24 hour internet radio news channel.

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