As Cameroon marks International Labour Day with the theme "Constructive Social Dialogue: Vector of Decent Work and Social Progress," the minimum wage issue takes center stage, especially in conflict-stricken areas like the North Regional headquarters of Bamenda.
Despite incremental increases over the years, workers in Bamenda express mixed feelings about the amounts and the impact of these adjustments, reflecting the complexities of living and working in a region marred by armed conflict for over seven years.
Since its inception in 1992 at 19,000 FCFA, the minimum wage in Cameroon has undergone several revisions, with the most recent adjustment in 2024 bringing it to 43,969 FCFA. This implies an increase of 24969 FCFA in 32 years. However, for many workers in Bamenda with the rising inflation, like Esther Mbah, a private school teacher, the increase is seen as insufficient to address the challenges exacerbated by the conflict. "While any increase is welcomed, it's disheartening that our wages still fail to keep pace with the rising cost of living, especially in a region plagued by conflict," Mbah laments.
In contrast, John Fombu, a small business owner at mobile Nkwen in Bamenda, acknowledges the positive impact of the incremental increases. "As a business owner, I understand the delicate balance between meeting workers' needs and sustaining operations," Fombu explains. "While the minimum wage adjustments may not solve all our problems, they demonstrate a commitment to improving living standards, even in challenging times."
The theme of "Constructive Social Dialogue" fits well with workers in Bamenda, who emphasize the importance of ongoing communication and collaboration in addressing the minimum wage issue within the conflict. "Dialogue is essential for finding solutions that consider the unique circumstances we face in conflict-affected areas," says Grace Ndi, a healthcare worker in a confessional health facility. "We need to work together to ensure that our voices are heard and our concerns are addressed."
Despite the challenges, some workers in Bamenda remain hopeful about the future and the potential for positive change. "Labour Day is a time for us to come together, to reflect on our achievements, and to advocate for a better tomorrow," says Samuel Taku, a credit union worker. "Even during the conflict, we must continue to strive for decent work and social progress, for ourselves and for future generations."
As Cameroon celebrates International Labour Day, the focus in conflict-affected areas like Bamenda highlights the urgency of addressing the minimum wage issue within the context of ongoing social dialogue and progress. While incremental increases demonstrate a commitment by government to improving living standards, there is a collective call for more comprehensive solutions that consider the unique challenges faced by workers in conflict-affected regions.
Looking ahead, the theme of "Constructive Social Dialogue" offers an opportunity for workers, policymakers, and stakeholders to come together to explore innovative approaches to address the minimum wage issue and promote decent work and social progress in Bamenda and beyond.
By Bakah Derick
Email: debakah2004@yahoo.com
Tel: 6 94 71 85 77