Africa-Press – Botswana. In a pressing development, the government of Botswana is poised to recalibrate the minimum wage rates before the culmination of this fiscal year. This issue has been stirring debates in Parliament, with lawmakers posing critical questions to Anna Mokgethi, the Minister of Labour and Home Affairs. Among them, Lobatse Member of Parliament, Dr. Thapelo Matsheka, sought clarity on the considerations behind the establishment of the minimum wage and its alignment with the cost of living.
Unraveling the Factors of Minimum Wage Determination
In response to the inquiries, Minister Mokgethi divulged that the determinants are enshrined under section 133(2) of the Employment Act. The discourse surrounding minimum wages in Botswana is reaching its decisive phase, with the imminent decree expected to be promulgated before Christmas and implemented from the start of the New Year. Labour Minister, Yiannis Panagiotou, has hinted at an augmentation of the national minimum wage, although refraining from citing a specific figure.
Stakeholders Views on the Wage Adjustment
Interestingly, employers’ organizations, the social partners in this context, also express support for a wage hike, albeit at a more modest scale compared to the trade unions. The upcoming revision of the national minimum wage is slated for two years hence. The subject of the national minimum wage is set to headline tomorrow’s session of the Labour Advisory Body.
Foreign Labour and its Implications
Another pertinent issue on the docket for the session includes the employment of foreign workers. There is ongoing pressure on the Ministry of Labour from employer organizations and economic sectors to expedite the licensing of foreign labour to cater to the labour market demand. The session of the Labour Advisory Body is scheduled to kick off at 1:00 pm and is anticipated to extend till at least 4:00 pm, with statements from the Minister slated for 4:30 pm.
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