FQM Trident prioritises worker welfare despite challenges

By BARNABAS ZULU

FQM Trident Limited’s Assistant General Manager, Mr. Frederic Wouters, has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to its employees despite facing significant operational challenges, including rising costs and limited electricity supply.
Speaking at the signing of the 2025-2026 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) between the company and the National Union of Miners and Allied Workers (NUMAW), Mr Wouters stated the importance of the ongoing partnership between management and the unions.
“I warmly welcome you to this important occasion as we come together to witness the signing of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) – 2025 – 2026. Today, we celebrate the shared commitment between management and the unions in improving the conditions of service for our valued staff,” Mr. Wouters said.
The CBA negotiations began on October 16, 2024, and concluded on November 5, 2024, after two successful sessions.
Mr Wouters praised the bargaining unit for their swift and professional handling of the talks. “I must pause and take this moment to say a special thank you to the bargaining unit for this great achievement of concluding the negotiations in record time.”
Despite facing challenges such as rising operational costs and the limited supply of electricity affecting production, Mr Wouters assured employees of the company’s steadfast commitment.
“Despite the operational challenges we have been navigating, including rising costs and the limited supply of electricity, that has affected production, we remain steadfast in our commitment to our workforce. This is evident in the signing of this CBA, lasting for the next two years,” he added.
He explained that the new agreement includes several improvements to employee compensation and benefits.
“The new agreement includes several improvements to employee compensation and benefits. Basic salaries will increase by 15 percent, while allowances such as education will rise by 23 percent, and leave passage by 24 percent. In addition, the company has pre-agreed to another 15 percent salary increment for 2026 to ensure stability and predictability over the next two years,” he said.
“We have demonstrated our dedication to improving the welfare of unionised employees by increasing the basic salary by 15 percent, revising key allowances such as education by 23 percent and leave passage by 24 percent, and enhancing benefits like the long-service awards and employer pension contribution.”
He stressed that these increases represent the highest in recent years, reaffirming the company’s recognition of its employees’ dedication and resilience.
Mr Wouters said FQM Trident has also prioritised employee development with several initiatives designed to enhance career growth.
“FQM Trident has also prioritised employee development, with several initiatives designed to enhance career growth. Over the past year, the company conducted departmental realignments, proficiency assessments leading to promotions, and salary reviews in selected departments. These efforts were aimed at ensuring excellence is recognised and rewarded,” he said.