Challenges facing trade union on achieving workplace democracy: A case of A to Z textile mill, Tanzania

Abstract

The study focused on challenges faced by trade unions on attaining workplace democracy at A to Z Textile Mill, Tanzania. Five research questions used to accomplish the study objectives were: What roles does trade union play in workplace democracy at A to Z Textiles Mills? How is workplace democracy implemented at A to Z Textiles Mills? What are the attitudes of stakeholders towards workplace democracy at A to Z Textiles Mills? What are the challenges facing trade union in achieving workplace democracy at A to Z Textiles Mills?; and What are possible solutions for the challenges which face trade union at A to Z Textiles Mills? It emerged from the study that Trade Union had been playing a great role in achieving democracy at A to Z Textile Mill. For example, it used to hold weekly meeting between workers and managers; there was a representation in the workers council and employees had freedom to select their own representatives. It is recommended that TUICO should find more financial resources in order to sustain its growth as a statutory vehicle for the articulation and protection of the collective interests of workers. Also, TUICO should provide more Training to its members for enabling them to be aware of their employment rights and conduct meetings regularly so as to know different problems of its members concerning their employment. Moreover, TUICO should establish anti-corruption committee for combating corruption particularly during elections so as to avoid management to plant its people in TUICO leadership that would be an obstacle for employees to achieve their interests. Furthermore, the government should make amendment in Employment Labour Relation Act of 2004 in order to allow for unconditional employees’ unions and strikes. Further studies are called up to find out the best solutions to solve challenges faced by trade unions on attaining workplace democracy. There is also a need for broader studies to be conducted to include other organisations from other parts of Tanzania in order to draw a wider understanding about challenges faced by trade unions on attaining workplace democracy.