Harare, Zimbabwe – April 16, 2025
Alpha Media Holdings (AMH), one of Zimbabwe’s leading independent media houses, is facing a significant wage dispute that has left employees shocked and frustrated. Reports indicate that many staff members received payslips reflecting zero salaries or minimal payments, with some even showing debts owed to the company despite not taking any advance loans.
Employees Stunned by Zero Salaries
Last week, numerous AMH employees were alarmed to find their payslips indicating no salary or a nominal amount of 100 ZiG. The confusion intensified when employees were informed that they owed the company for previous months, leading to widespread discontent. The lack of prior communication regarding these deductions has exacerbated the situation, leaving staff feeling blindsided.
Suspension of Benefits Without Notice
Employees who approached the Human Resources department discovered that AMH had ceased paying for medical aid and funeral services. Instead, the company is implementing a pro-rata payment system based on reduced work hours. The abrupt changes, introduced without prior notice, have left employees feeling betrayed and uncertain about their financial security.
Unremitted NASSA Contributions Raise Legal Concerns
The situation worsened when it was revealed that AMH had been deducting National Social Security Authority (NASSA) contributions from employees’ salaries but failing to remit the funds to the relevant authorities. This revelation has raised legal and ethical concerns, as employees may face consequences for the company’s actions. According to a report, about 48% of registered companies in Zimbabwe are not remitting NASSA contributions as required by law, affecting the value of earnings and services given to retired employees .
Financial Crisis and Unpaid Leave
AMH’s financial woes have led to drastic measures, including sending journalists on two weeks of unpaid leave each month since March. Workers, unpaid for seven months in USD and three months in ZiG, describe the arrangement as forced leave without pay. Management had promised half salaries and back pay during this period, but these commitments remain unfulfilled .
Employees Down Tools in Protest
In response to the ongoing issues, AMH workers have downed tools, citing poor remuneration. The company, which runs NewsDay, The Standard, and Zimbabwe Independent, as well as an online TV station, Heart & Soul, is now grappling with operational disruptions due to the strike .
