Rural teachers in Zimbabwe have said they will join ongoing industrial action by nurses if the government fails to increase wages and allowances, raising the prospect of a wider public sector shutdown.

In a letter dated 24 March 2026, the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) said its members were facing severe financial strain due to low salaries and rising living costs. The union warned that without urgent intervention, it would escalate action, adding to growing labour unrest in the country.

The Zimbabwe teachers strike threat follows a 48-hour ultimatum issued earlier this week by nurses, who are demanding a monthly salary of US$540. This figure is nearly double the average earnings currently received by many health workers.

ARTUZ said teachers were similarly affected by what it described as “incapacitating” economic conditions. The union proposed a partial withdrawal of services, suggesting a two-day working week as an initial measure.

“The prevailing economic conditions have rendered civil servants increasingly incapacitated, undermining their ability to effectively discharge their professional duties,” the union said in its statement.

It also called for a review of transport allowances, citing rising fuel costs and the erosion of earnings paid in the local ZiG currency. According to the union, the local currency component of salaries has lost significant value, leaving workers struggling to meet basic needs.

ARTUZ indicated it was prepared to coordinate action with nurses and other labour groups, raising the possibility of a broader strike. The union said it would pursue “collective action” and engage with wider labour bodies to consider a general strike if its demands are not met.

The Zimbabwe teachers strike could therefore form part of a wider mobilisation across the public sector, as pressure mounts on the government to respond to wage concerns.

In response, the government has said it is aware of the challenges faced by civil servants. Presidential spokesperson George Charamba said a review of salaries and fuel-related costs was expected in early April.

“Good tidings are coming both on the fuel front and salaries for civil servants,” he said, adding that authorities recognised the pressures facing workers.

However, unions say immediate action is needed, warning that delays could disrupt essential services in both education and healthcare.