Shoprite employees to join local trade unions

by Nyamanoko Bwire

About 55 employees of of Shoprite Supermarkets in Arusha are now contemplating to enrol themselves and become members of a local trade union.

Some of the Shoprite employees, most of whom being youths had apparently never heard of trade unions or what the latters normally do to advocate the rights of their members.

Last week, a delegation from the Conservation Hotels and Domestic Workers Union (CHODAWU) visited the giant Supermarket and had a talk with the employees about the possibility of them joining the organization.
Also in the entourage was a committee member for the Trade Union Confederation of Tanzania (TUCTA) Arusha branch, Leopold Kabendera who reminded the workers that in this era of economic revolution, globalization and free trade, employees needed to have a platform where their woes can be heard and problems addressed.

The Regional Secretary for CHODAWU, Francis Maembe added that, workers unions not only help employees to be more productive but also assist in the preparation of better contracts and conducive working environment in industries, companies and institutions.

But as some Shoprite employees later admitted, all these facts were new to them, but having learned them, they were now preparing themselves to join local trade unions.

Shoprite branch manager for Arusha, Andrew Mweemba said the local stores comprising of retail and wholesale supermarkets employ 55 workers - 48 of whom are permanent while seven are casual or part time employees.
The Arusha Shoprite Checkers Stores are in the supermarket chain under the South African based, Shoprite conglomerate.
 

he Arusha Shoprite Supermarket opened in October last year and has been a favourite shopping centre for most residents in town.

Last modified: October 23, 2003.
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