Government assistance must be balanced carefully so it does not discourage people from working, says Opposition Member of Parliament Jone Usamate.
Speaking in an interview on unemployment in the country, Mr Usamate said while Government support was necessary for vulnerable people, it should not weaken people’s motivation to seek work.
“I think sometimes maybe people are getting all kinds of assistance from government that makes them a bit lazy,” he said.
Mr Usamate highlighted the ongoing challenge where youth unemployment remains high while some employers are turning to foreign workers to fill labour gaps.
He said some businesses believed foreign workers were more reliable in terms of attendance and work commitment.
“Some employers feel that these workers work hard and they are on time.”
Workers from countries such as Bangladesh are being hired at the same wage rate as local workers, noting that the issue is not about paying foreign workers less.
“If the normal wage rate for a bus driver is six dollars, they get that money here.”
Mr Usamate said addressing unemployment would require efforts from Government, communities, and leaders to encourage more people to take up available jobs.
“We want all our people to work and reduce unemployment.”
He also warned that increasing the minimum wage could create additional pressure on businesses.
“Once you increase the minimum wage, companies will have to increase the cost of the things they sell so that has its own complications.”
He said tackling unemployment required careful decisions to balance support for citizens with economic realities.
