EWN writes that the City of Tshwane has signed an agreement with worker unions for above- inflation wage and salary increases over the next five years. The agreement states that all Tshwane employees will receive annual increases above the average consumer price index percentage but not higher than 7%. This was unanimously approved by the Tshwane council on Thursday.

Last year, municipal employees in Tshwane went on a three-month strike because the city refused to implement wage increases previously agreed upon. At the time, the city’s top administrators said the capital city was broke and didn’t have enough money to foot an increased salary bill. Recently ousted Tshwane Mayor Cilliers Brink said it was the tough and unpopular decisions that put the city in a better financial position.

“What council must take in mind is that our ability to implement the salary increases in the outer years depends on the continuation of our financial recovery effort. It is not a given that the city will afford it, it requires effort to build up our revenue value chain.” Workers’ unions in Tshwane have welcomed the agreement, saying they hope the capital city doesn’t renege on it again.

by Thabiso Goba