Tanzania’s Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba has issued a strong warning to employers and land officials over unpaid worker dues and recurring land disputes, during a visit to Iringa Region.
Speaking at a public rally in Igowole, Mufindi District, PM Nchemba said the government will not tolerate delays or refusal to settle legitimate claims owed to workers and service providers.
“This habit of normalizing people’s suffering and playing with their sweat is unacceptable. The rights of the vulnerable are not a joke,” he said.
The Prime Minister said reports indicate many young workers in factories and private companies are being denied their entitlements through delayed payments or outright non-payment, affecting their livelihoods.
He also turned his focus to the land sector, warning officials against fuelling disputes that continue to generate complaints from citizens. Nchemba said the government is growing increasingly frustrated with unresolved land conflicts.
To underline the issue, he cited a private company accused of failing to settle debts, including Sh28 million owed to an individual since 2021 and TSh9 million in unpaid worker dues dating back to April 2024.
“You see them living lavishly, changing cars and clothes every day, while those they owe continue to suffer,” he said.
PM Nchemba directed Heri James and regional police to track down the company’s owners and ensure they report to authorities and settle the debts immediately.
“I want them found and to pay everything they owe. I will return here if they haven’t paid, we will take further action,” he said.
He added that delays in payments are often not due to lack of funds but negligence and disregard for people’s rights, stressing the government’s commitment to enforcing accountability.
