BY STAFF REPORTER

The Baking and Allied Workers Union (BAWU) successfully hosted its 7th National Congress under the theme "Organising for Power, Building a Resilient Union in an Uncertain Economy," unanimously retaining its entire top leadership team unopposed.

The seamless re-election underscores strong internal stability and unified membership support as BAWU charts its strategic vision for the upcoming leadership term.

Addressing delegates following his re-election, incoming BAWU President Brian Bondera expressed gratitude to the union’s founding members, outgoing executive, branch leaders, and the Food and Federation of Allied Workers Union of Zimbabwe (FFAWUZ) secretariat for their steadfast support.

Bondera emphasized the vital role of solidarity across the baking sector during current economic headwinds, pledging that the executive will prioritize driving the "decent work agenda" to improve wages and worker welfare.

"Our strength lies in our collective voice. We remain committed to championing better working conditions and building a stronger, more resilient union capable of navigating economic pressures," said Bondera.

The FFAWUZ General Secretary Runesu Dzimiri called on delegates to participate fully, emphasizing that the future of the union remains in their hands. He urged the leadership and delegates to prioritize membership recruitment, mobilization, and grassroots organizing.

BAWU Founding National Secretary Moses Hwingwiri highlighted the historical evolution of trade unionism in Zimbabwe, contrasting colonial-era struggles with modern labour challenges. Hwingwiri stressed the need to build capable, confident cadres:

"You cannot win when you are weak. Tap into our knowledge base—we have the strategies. We are leaders guiding workers who face ill-treatment, and we must approach members with confidence, a shared purpose, and the understanding that power is shared."

The ZCTU delivered a solidarity speech urging affiliates to prioritise upholding democracy within their establishments as well as to always remember the contradictions of labour and capital for effective representation of membership.