Coal plant closures spark job fears

Philemon Jambaya

Assistant Editor

Union leaders in Zimbabwe's energy sector are raising alarm over the government's plan to close and repurpose three coal-fired power plants. They warn that the move could lead to significant job losses and have urged authorities to engage with workers before proceeding.

The Energy and Power Development Ministry outlined its intention last year to decommission smaller thermal power stations and shift focus towards renewable energy sources. This aligns with the global trend of reducing reliance on fossil fuels to combat climate change.

However, the Zimbabwe Energy Workers Union has criticized the government's approach, accusing it of unilateralism. General Secretary Martin Chikuni expressed concerns about the lack of consultation with workers.

"The employees have a right to be involved and participate, through their trade union, in decisions affecting their interests at the workplace," Chikuni told the Industrial Global Union.

The Zimbabwe Power Company , the owner of the affected power stations, has yet to engage with the union regarding the closures, a move the union considers an unfair labor practice. While the government has assured the public that the transition will be managed carefully, union leaders remain skeptical and have written to management demanding involvement in the process.

They fear the closures could negatively impact workers' conditions and welfare, adding to the economic challenges faced by many Zimbabweans.

As the country grapples with the dual pressures of energy security and environmental sustainability, the potential job losses and social implications of this transition have become a major point of contention.