The Labour Institutions Act
This section gives the short title: the Act may be cited as the Labour Institutions Act.
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About this statute
This section gives the short title: the Act may be cited as the Labour Institutions Act. This section defines key terms used in the Act. A Council for Labour, Economic and Social matters is established. The Minister appoints the Council’s members, and the Council may co-opt extra members only with the Minister’s approval. The Council must advise officials on labour, economic, and social policy, support nominations for certain appointments, and may do investigations, research, and make its own rules for carrying out its functions.
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Provisions of The Labour Institutions Act
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- 1 Verify source ↗
Short title
This section gives the short title: the Act may be cited as the Labour Institutions Act.
1. This Act may be cited as the Labour Institutions Act. Interpretation Act No. 17 of 2010 s. 18 Cap. 366 - 2 Verify source ↗
Interpretation
This section defines key terms used in the Act.
2. In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires- “Commission” means the Commission for Mediation and Arbitration established under section 12; “Council” means the Labour, Economic and Social Council established under section 3; “Court” means the Labour Court; “Deputy Registrar of the Labour Court” means the Deputy Registrar appointed in terms of section 55; “ELRA” means the Employment and Labour Relations Act; “Labour Commissioner” means the Labour Commissioner appointed in terms of section 43(1) and in the absence of the Labour Commissioner, the Deputy Labour Commissioner; “Labour Court” means the Labour Division of the High Court established in accordance with the provisions of section 51; 340 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] “labour laws” includes this Act and any other written law in respect of which the Minister is responsible; “labour officer” means a labour officer stipulated in section 43(4) and include the Labour Commissioner or the Deputy Labour Commissioner; “Minister” means subject to section 34(a), the Minister responsible for labour matters; “Permanent Secretary” means unless otherwise expressed in this Act, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry responsible for labour matters; “Registrar of Organisations” means the Registrar appointed in terms of section 43(2) and in the absence of the Registrar, the Deputy Registrar appointed in terms of subsection (2); “sector” means an industry or a service or part of an industry or a service. PART II LABOUR, ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COUNCIL Establishment of Council
Part
PART II
- 3 Verify source ↗
Establishment of Council
A Council for Labour, Economic and Social matters is established.
3. There is hereby established a Council for Labour, Economic and Social matters. Composition of Council - 4 Verify source ↗
Composition of Council
The Minister appoints the Council’s members, and the Council may co-opt extra members only with the Minister’s approval.
4.–(1) The Council shall consist of the following members to be appointed by the Minister in accordance with this section- (a) Chairperson who shall not be- (i) a member, official or office bearer of a trade union, employers association or federation; or (ii) an employee in the public service of the Government of the United Republic; (b) sixteen other members, comprising- (i) the Permanent Secretary and three other members to represent the interests of the Government; (ii) four members to represent the interests of employers; (iii) four members to represent the interests of employees; and 341 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] (iv) four members appointed because of their expertise in labour, economic, and social policy formulation. (2) Prior to appointing a member of the Council, the Minister shall by notice in writing, invite nominations from- (a) registered trade unions and federations of trade unions, if the member is to represent employees; or (b) registered employers’ associations and federations of employers’ associations, if the member is to represent employers; (c) those members of the Council representing the interests of employers and employees in respect of the members contemplated in subsection (1)(b)(iv). (3) With the approval of the Minister, the Council may co-opt other members to assist it in the performance of its functions, and such members shall not vote at meetings of the Council. Functions and powers of Council - 5 Verify source ↗
Functions and powers of Council
The Council must advise officials on labour, economic, and social policy, support nominations for certain appointments, and may do investigations, research, and make its own rules for carrying out its functions.
5.–(1) The functions of the Council shall be- (a) to advise the Government through the Ministry on any of the following- (i) measures to promote economic growth and social equity; (ii) economic and social policy; (iii) any significant changes to social and economic policy before it is submitted to cabinet; (iv) the promotion of a co-ordinated policy on labour, economic and social matters; (b) to advise the Minister on- (i) national labour market policy; (ii) any proposed labour law before it is submitted to cabinet; (iii) the prevention and reduction of unemployment; (iv) any issue arising from the International Labour Organisation; 342 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] (v) any issue raised by any international or regional association of states of which the United Republic is a member; (vi) codes of good practice; (vii) collection and compilation of information and statistics relating to the administration of the labour laws; (viii) any other labour matter referred to the Council by the Minister or the Council considers useful to achieve the objects of the labour laws; (c) to ensure that employers and employees each nominate- (i) assessors for appointment of the panels of (ii) assessors referred to in section 54; individuals for appointment as members of the governing body of the Commission in terms of section 16; (iii) individuals for appointment as members of the Essential Services Committee in terms of section 29; (d) to survey and analyse social and economic affairs; (e) to keep abreast of international developments in social and economic policy; (f) to evaluate the effectiveness of legislation and policy affecting social and economic policy; (g) to work in close cooperation with different ministries, statutory bodies, programmes and other forums or non-governmental agencies engaged in the formulation and the implementation of labour, economic, and social policy. (2) In the performance of its functions, the Council may conduct- (a) an investigation as it may consider necessary; or (b) research into labour, economic, and social policy. (3) The Council may determine its own rules for the performance of its functions. 343 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Tenure of office and terms and conditions of membership - 6 Verify source ↗
Tenure of office and terms and conditions of membership
Council members are appointed for three years, may be re-appointed at the end of the term, and are paid attendance, travel, and subsistence allowances at a rate set by the Minister.
6.–(1) A member of the Council- (a) shall be appointed for three years; and (b) may be re-appointed at the end of the term of office. (2) A member of the Council shall be paid allowances for attending meetings, travel and subsistence at a rate to be determined by the Minister on the recommendations of the Permanent Secretary after consultation with the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Public Service Management. Removal of members and filling of vacancies - 7 Verify source ↗
Removal of members and filling of vacancies
The Minister must remove a member from office if specified grounds apply, and must appoint a replacement when a Council vacancy occurs.
7.–(1) The Minister shall remove a member from office if the member- (a) has resigned in writing and delivered the resignation to the Permanent Secretary; (b) no longer represents the interest in respect of which the member was appointed in terms of section 5 (1)(b)(i), (ii) or (iii): Provided that, removal of a member on this ground shall be done only if requested by the constituency whose interests that member represents; (c) is guilty of serious misconduct relating to the performance of the member’s functions; (d) is not able to perform the functions of a member (due to illness or any other reason); (e) is absent from three meetings of the Council without permission or good cause; (f) is declared bankrupt; or (g) is convicted of a criminal offence and sentenced to imprisonment without an option of a fine. (2) Whenever a vacancy occurs on the Council, the Minister shall appoint a member to fill that vacancy for the unexpired term of office, and while making such an appointment, shall comply with the provisions of section 4. Committee of Council - 8 Verify source ↗
Committee of Council
The Council may establish committees and, with Minister approval, assign functions to a committee. Committees must be tripartite, have at least three of their own members, and non-member committee members cannot vote when the committee has been assigned functions under this section.
8.–(1) The Council may, for the purpose of performing its functions- (a) establish committees to perform specific functions of the Council; and 344 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] (b) subject to the approval of the Minister, assign any of its functions to a Committee on conditions it may deem necessary to impose. (2) A Committee appointed by the Council- (a) shall be tripartite; (b) comprise at least three of its own members; and (c) may include any number of other committee members, but such members shall not vote in meetings of the committee if that committee has been assigned functions in terms of subsection (1)(b). (3) Any function performed by a Committee in terms of this section shall be deemed to be performed by the Council. Meetings of Council - 9 Verify source ↗
Meetings of Council
This section sets how the Council meets, who chairs meetings, how quorum and voting work, and requires written meeting records.
9.–(1) The Chairperson shall call- (a) at least three meetings of the Council in a calendar year; (b) meetings of the Council in accordance with its rules; (c) a special meeting of the Council- (i) at the written and motivated request of four members; or (ii) at the request of the Minister. (2) The Chairperson shall preside over all meetings of the Council at which the Chairperson is present. (3) Where the Chairperson is not present, the members may elect a Chairperson from among their number to chair the meeting. (4) The majority of the members of the Council constitute a quorum provided that there is at least one member representing each of the following interests- (a) the government; (b) employers; and (c) employees. (5) A decision of the majority of the members of the Council present at the meeting shall be the decision of the Council. (6) In the case of a tied vote, the member presiding at the meeting shall have a casting vote in addition to that member’s deliberative vote. 345 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Administration of Council (7) The Council shall keep a written record of its meetings. - 10 Verify source ↗
Administration of Council
The Permanent Secretary must provide Ministry staff for the Council’s secretariat, and may appoint an officer to act as Secretary to the Council. The Council may also contract with persons to assist it, but only after consulting the Permanent Secretary and with the Permanent Secretary’s approval of the contract conditions.
10.–(1) The Permanent Secretary- (a) shall provide members of staff in the Ministry available to be a Secretariat of the Council in the performance of its functions; and (b) may designate an officer in the Ministry to serve as a Secretary to the Council. (2) The Council may contract with persons to assist it in the performance of its functions- (a) after consultation with the Permanent Secretary; and (b) with the approval of the Permanent Secretary as to the conditions of the contract. Annual report of Council - 11 Verify source ↗
Annual report of Council
The Council must submit an annual report of its activities to the Minister each year by 30 June of the following year.
11. The Council shall submit an annual report of its activities in each calendar year to the Minister before 30th June, of the next year. PART III COMMISSION FOR MEDIATION AND ARBITRATION Establishment of Commission
Part
PART III
- 12 Verify source ↗
Establishment of Commission
A Commission for Mediation and Arbitration is established.
12. There is hereby established a Commission for Mediation and Arbitration. Independence and status of Commission - 13 Verify source ↗
14. Functions of Commission
The Commission must act independently and not be directed or controlled when carrying out its functions. Government, public authorities, and certain registered organisations and federations must help ensure that independence is effective.
13.–(1) The Commission shall- (a) be an independent department of Government; (b) not, in the performance of its functions, be subjected to the direction or control of any person or authority; and (c) be independent of any political party, trade union, employees’ association, federation of trade unions or employers’ associations. (2) The Government, public authorities and other registered organisations and federations shall provide such assistance and cooperation as may be required to ensure the effectiveness of the provisions of subsection (1). 346 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] (3) Subject to the provisions of this Act, the provisions of any written law relating to public departments shall apply to the Commission and the office of the Commission, and any office established under the Commission shall be a public office. - 14 Verify source ↗
Functions of Commission
The Commission must mediate referred labour disputes and determine disputes sent to arbitration in the listed cases. It may also offer to mediate disputes that have not been referred to it.
14.–(1) The functions of the Commission shall be to- (a) mediate any dispute referred to it in terms of any labour law; (b) determine any dispute referred to it by arbitration where- (i) a labour law requires the dispute to be determined by arbitration; (ii) the parties to the dispute agree to it being determined by arbitration; (iii) the Labour Court refers the dispute to the Commission to be determined by arbitration in terms of section 95(3)(a)(ii) of the Employment and Labour Relations Act. (2) The Commission may offer to mediate a dispute that has not been referred to it. Functions of Commission Act No. 24 of 2015 s. 12 Cap. 366 Powers of Commission - 15 Verify source ↗
Powers of Commission
The Commission may appoint, assign, establish, make rules, publish guidelines, and publish a code of ethics, and it must publish prescribed rules or guidelines in the Gazette.
15.–(1) In Commission may- the performance of its functions, the (a) appoint a director, mediators and arbitrators; (b) assign mediators and arbitrators to mediate and arbitrate disputes in accordance with the provisions of any labour law; (c) establish offices in areas and at administrative levels as it may determine; (d) establish divisions of the Commission and assign particular responsibilities to them; (e) make rules to regulate- its internal administration; (i) (ii) the practice and procedure for mediating disputes; (iii) the practice and procedure for arbitrating disputes; 347 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] (iv) the practice and procedure of the Essential Services Committee; (f) publish guidelines; or (g) publish a code of ethics for mediators and arbitrators. (2) The Commission shall, by notice in the Gazette, publish any rules or guidelines prescribed in subsection (1)(e) and (f). Composition of Commission - 16 Verify source ↗
Composition of Commission
The Commission must include a Chairperson and six other Commissioners, and the Chairperson and commissioners are appointed through the President and Minister process described here.
16.–(1) The Commission shall consist of- (a) a Chairperson, who shall not be- (i) a member, official or office bearer of a trade union, employers association or federation; or (ii) an employee in the public service; (b) six other Commissioners. (2) The Chairperson shall be appointed from amongst persons who have knowledge, experience and a considerable degree of involvement in labour matters. (3) The President shall appoint- (a) the Chairperson, from a recommended by the Council; list of three persons (b) two commissioners proposed by members of the Council representing the interests of employees; (c) two commissioners proposed by members of the Council representing the interests of employers; (d) two commissioners to represent the Government. (4) The appointment referred to in subsection (3) shall be made on the recommendation of the Minister after the Minister has consulted with the Council. Tenure and conditions of service of commissioners - 17 Verify source ↗
Tenure and conditions of service of commissioners
A Commissioner serves a three-year term, may be re-appointed, is not a full-time salaried office, and can be removed or replaced in specified circumstances.
17.–(1) A Commissioner shall hold office for a period of three years and shall be eligible for re-appointment at the end of the term of office. (2) The office of Commissioner shall not be a full time office and a Commissioner shall not be paid a salary but shall be paid allowances for attending meetings, travel and subsistence at a rate determined by the Minister on the recommendation of the Permanent Secretary after consultation with the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Public Service Management. 348 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] (3) The office of a Commissioner shall become vacant if the Commissioner- (a) resigns; or (b) is removed from office in terms of subsection (4). (4) The President, on the recommendations of the Minister, shall remove a Commissioner from office if the Commissioner- (a) no longer represents the interest in respect of which the member was appointed in terms of section 16(3): Provided that, removal of a Commissioner on this ground shall be done only if requested by the constituency whose interests that Commissioner represents; (b) is guilty of serious misconduct relating to the performance of the Commissioner’s functions; (c) is not able to perform the functions of a Commissioner (due to illness or any other reason); (d) is absent from three consecutive meetings of the Commission without permission or good cause; (e) is declared bankrupt; or (f) is convicted of a criminal offence and sentenced to imprisonment without an option of a fine. (5) The Minister shall consult with the Council before making a recommendation to the President to remove a Commissioner from office. (6) Whenever an office of a Commissioner becomes vacant, the President shall appoint a Commissioner to fill that vacancy for the unexpired term of office and while making such an appointment, he shall comply with the provisions of section 16(3). - 18 Verify source ↗
Director of Commission
The Commission must appoint a Director and Deputy Director, and the Director has management, attendance, delegation, mediation/arbitration, and referral powers subject to stated conditions.
18.–(1) There shall be appointed a Director and a Deputy Director of the Commission. (2) The Commission, after consultation with the Minister, shall appoint a Director and a Deputy Director from among persons who are knowledgeable, skilled and experienced in labour relations and dispute prevention and resolution. 349 Director of Commission ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Cap. 366 Mediators and arbitrators (3) The Director shall be the Chief Executive of the Commission and subject to the general directions and control of the Commission- (a) be responsible for carrying out the policy decisions of the Commission and the day to day administration and management of the affairs of the Commission; (b) perform the functions that are conferred on the Director by any labour law or delegated to the Director by the Commission; (c) may mediate and arbitrate disputes referred to the Commission under the Employment and Labour Relations Act. (4) The Director shall, unless in any particular case, the Commission otherwise directs in writing, attend all meetings of the Commission but shall have no right to vote. (5) The Director, in consultation with the Commission, may delegate any of his functions or the function of the Commission to any mediator, arbitrator or member of staff. (6) Notwithstanding any provisions in this Act, the Director may refer any dispute referred to the Commission to the Labour Court for its decision if it is in the public interest to do so. - 19 Verify source ↗
Mediators and arbitrators
The Commission must appoint, oversee, and set conduct rules for mediators and arbitrators, and it may remove them only for specified misconduct, incapacity, or code violations.
19.–(1) The Commission shall appoint as many mediators and arbitrators as it considers necessary to perform the functions of the Commission. (2) The Commission may appoint mediators and arbitrators on either a full-time or part-time basis and on terms and conditions determined by it, in consultation with the Office of the Public Service Management. (3) When appointing a mediator or arbitrator, the Commission shall have due regard to the need to constitute an independent and professional Commission. (4) The Commission shall prepare a code of conduct for mediators and arbitrators and ensure that they comply with the code of conduct in performing their functions. 350 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] (5) The Commission shall be responsible for the control and discipline of mediators and arbitrators provided that the control or discipline does not amount to interference with the independence of the mediator or arbitrator in any dispute. (6) The Commission may remove a mediator or arbitrator from office only for- (a) serious misconduct relating to the functions of a mediator or arbitrator; (b) incapacity relating to the functions of a mediator or arbitrator; or (c) a material violation of the code of conduct referred to in subsection (4). Cap. 366 (7) This Act or the Employment Labour Relations Act shall Powers of mediators and arbitrators Act No. 8 of 2006 Sch. not preclude- (a) a person being appointed as both a mediator and an arbitrator under this section; (b) such a person from being assigned to perform both capacities in respect of a dispute. (8) An assignment of a person in terms of subsection (7) (b) shall only take place where there are published rules and guidelines regulating the performance of such persons. - 20 Verify source ↗
Powers of mediators and arbitrators
Mediators and arbitrators may summon and question people, and people summoned must comply; failing to do so can amount to contempt of the Commission.
20.–(1) Mediators and arbitrators appointed in terms of this Act may- (a) summon any person for questioning or to attend a mediation or arbitration hearing if the mediator or arbitrator considers that, that person’s attendance shall assist in the resolution of the dispute; (b) summon any person who is believed to have possession or control of any book, document or object relevant to the resolution of the dispute, to appear before the mediator or arbitrator to be questioned and to produce the book, document or object; (c) administer an oath or accept an affirmation from any person called to give evidence; and (d) question any person about any matter relevant to the dispute. 351 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] (2) Witness fees to a person who appears before a mediator or arbitrator in response to a summons issued in terms of this section shall be borne out by a party who calls that witness. (3) Where a witness is summoned by the Commission on its own motion, the cost for that witness shall be borne out by the Director of the Commission. (4) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (2), in a fitting case, the Commission may order the cost for the witness to be paid by the Director of the Commission. (5) Any person, who does or omits to do any of the acts provided for in paragraphs (a) to (i) of this subsection, commits contempt of the Commission- (a) where, after having been summoned to appear before a mediator or arbitrator, the person, without good cause, fails to appear at the place, date and time stated in the summons; (b) where, after having appeared in response to a summons, the person fails to remain in attendance until excused by the mediator or arbitrator; (c) by refusing to take the oath or to make an affirmation as a witness when a mediator or arbitrator so requires; (d) by refusing to answer any question fully or to the best of that person’s knowledge and belief subject to any law entitling that person to refuse to do so; (e) where the person, without good cause, fails to produce any book, document or object specified in the summons; (f) where the person wilfully hinders a mediator or arbitrator in performing any function conferred by or in terms of any labour law; (g) where the person insults, disparages or belittles a mediator or arbitrator, or prejudices or improperly influences proceedings or improperly anticipates a mediator’s or arbitrator’s decision; (h) by wilfully interrupting the mediation or arbitration proceedings or misbehaving in any other manner during those proceedings; 352 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Oaths Staff of Commission (i) by doing anything else in relation to the Commission which, if done in relation to a court of law, would have been contempt of court. - 21 Verify source ↗
Oaths
Commissioners, the Director, mediators, and arbitrators must take and subscribe to the required oath before starting office duties.
21. A Commissioner, the Director, mediator and arbitrator shall, before entering upon the duties of office, take and subscribe to an oath for the due performance of the functions of office as set out in the Schedule to this Act. - 22 Verify source ↗
Staff of Commission
The Director may appoint staff after consulting the Commission, the Commission sets staff remuneration with the Office of the Public Service Management, and the Director is responsible for staff control and discipline.
22.–(1) The Director may appoint staff after consulting the Commission. (2) The Commission, in consultation with the Office of the Public Service Management, shall determine the remuneration of staff members. (3) The Director shall be responsible for the control and discipline of the staff. Finances of Commission - 23 Verify source ↗
Finances of Commission
The Commission’s funds come from appropriations, donations, and other lawful resources, and it must account for its finances and submit an annual budget to the Minister; the Minister then tables that budget before the National Assembly.
23.–(1) The funds and resources of the Commission shall consist of- (a) moneys appropriated by Parliament; (b) donations, grants or bequests as the Commission may receive without compromising the independence of the Commission; (c) such other moneys or property accruing to the Commission- (i) under any written law; or (ii) in any other manner in the performance of its functions. (2) The Commission shall be responsible to the National Assembly in accounting for its revenue and expenditure. (3) The financial year of the Commission begins on first July in each year and ends on thirtieth June of the next year. (4) In each financial year, at a time determined by the Minister, the Commission shall submit to the Minister a detailed annual budget for the next financial year including the Commission’s estimated income and expenditure and the requested appropriation from Parliament. 353 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Accounts and audits (5) In preparing its estimates under subsection (4), the Commission shall have regard to the advice of the Minister and the Minister responsible for finance. (6) The Minister shall, upon receipt of an annual budget, table the budget before the National Assembly. - 24 Verify source ↗
Accounts and audits
The Commission must keep proper accounts and records, prepare appropriation and annual accounts, and its accounts must be audited each financial year.
24.–(1) The Commission shall- (a) keep proper books of accounts and records of its income, expenditure, assets and liabilities; (b) take all reasonable measures to ensure that the resources of the Commission are safeguarded and utilized in the most economic, efficient and effective manner; (c) prepare appropriation accounts in accordance with the Cap. 348 Public Finance Act; (d) prepare annual accounts in accordance with generally accepted accounting practice in respect of all its transactions. (2) The accounts of the Commission shall be audited by the Controller and Auditor-General in respect of each financial year. (3) After the audit, the Controller and the Auditor-General shall certify the accounts of the Commission and submit the report to the Commission. Power to contract - 25 Verify source ↗
Power to contract
The Commission may contract with a person to do work or perform functions on its behalf, and that person must follow the same independence requirements that apply to the Commission.
25.–(1) The Commission may contract with any person to- Delegation of Commission’s powers (a) do work for the Commission; (b) perform any function on behalf of the Commission. (2) A person with whom the Commission contracts shall be bound by the requirements of independence that binds the Commission under section 13. - 26 Verify source ↗
Delegation of Commission’s powers
The Commission may delegate most of its functions in writing, but not certain listed functions.
26.–(1) The Commission may delegate in writing any of its functions, other than the functions prescribed below, to any member of the Commission, the Director, a Committee of the Commission, and a mediator or arbitrator appointed in terms of section 19, and the functions that the Commission shall not delegate are- (a) appointing the Director; (b) appointing mediators and arbitrators under section 19; 354 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Limitation of liability and disclosure Annual report of Commission (c) approving the annual or supplementary budget for submission to the Minister in terms of section 23. (2) The Commission may attach conditions to a delegation and may amend or revoke a delegation at any time. (3) The Commission may vary or set aside any decision made by a person acting in terms of a delegation made in terms of subsection (1). - 27 Verify source ↗
Limitation of liability and disclosure
The Commission is liable for losses caused by good-faith acts or omissions done while exercising its functions, and it must not disclose confidential or without-prejudice information from mediation.
27.–(1) The Commission shall be liable for any loss suffered by any person as a result of any act performed or omitted in good faith in the course of exercising the functions of the Commission. (2) The Commission may not disclose to any person, or in any court, any information or document acquired on a confidential basis or without prejudice in the course of mediation. (3) In this section, “Commission” includes the Commission, a Commissioner and any person employed, appointed or contracted by the Commission. - 28 Verify source ↗
Annual report of Commission
The Commission must prepare and submit an annual report within six months after the financial year ends, and the Minister must table it in the National Assembly as soon as reasonably practicable.
28.–(1) Within six months after the end of the financial year, the Commission shall prepare and submit to the National Assembly, through the Minister, an annual report in respect of that year containing- (a) a copy of the audited accounts of the Commission; (b) the auditor’s report on those accounts; (c) a report on the operations of the Commission; and (d) any other information that the Minister may require. (2) The Minister shall table the report with the National Assembly as soon as reasonably practicable. PART IV ESSENTIAL SERVICES COMMITTEE Establishment of Essential Services Committee
Part
PART IV
- 29 Verify source ↗
Establishment of Essential Services Committee
An Essential Services Committee is established within the Commission.
29. There is hereby established an Essential Services Committee within the Commission. 355 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Functions of Essential Services Committee Cap. 366 - 30 Verify source ↗
Functions of Essential Services Committee
The Essential Services Committee can designate essential services and decide disputes about whether an employee or employer is engaged in a designated essential service.
30. The functions of the Essential Services Committee shall be- (a) to designate essential services in terms of section 78(2) of the Employment and Labour Relations Act; and (b) to determine disputes about whether or not an employee or employer is engaged in a designated essential service. Appointment of Essential Services Committee Act No. 24 of 2015 s. 13 - 31 Verify source ↗
Appointment of Essential Services Committee
The Minister appoints the Essential Services Committee members and chair, the chair and members serve three years, and the Minister may remove members for listed reasons.
31.–(1) The Minister shall, in consultation with the Council- (a) appoint five members with knowledge and experience of labour law and labour relations as members of the Essential Services Committee; and (b) appoint one of such members to be a Chairperson of the Committee. (2) The Chairperson and members of the Essential Services Committee- (a) shall be appointed for three years; (b) may be re-appointed at the end of the term of office; and (c) before assuming duties of office, shall take and subscribe to an oath or affirmation. (3) The Minister, on the recommendations of the Permanent Secretary, may determine the allowances to be paid to members of the Essential Services Committee for attending meetings, travel and subsistence. (4) The Permanent Secretary shall consult with the Permanent Secretary of the Office for Public Service Management prior to the making of a recommendation stipulated in subsection (3). (5) The Minister shall remove a member from office if the member- (a) has resigned in writing and delivered the resignation to the Permanent Secretary; (b) is guilty of serious misconduct relating to the performance of the member’s functions; (c) is not able to perform the functions of a member (due to illness or any other reason); 356 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Powers of Essential Services Committee (d) is absent from three consecutive meetings of the Essential Services Committee without permission or good cause; (e) is declared bankrupt; or (f) is convicted of a criminal offence and sentenced to imprisonment without an option of a fine. (6) Whenever a vacancy occurs on the Essential Services Committee, the Minister shall appoint a member to fill that vacancy for the unexpired term of office and while making such an appointment, he shall comply with the provisions of subsection (1). - 32 Verify source ↗
Powers of Essential Services Committee
The Essential Services Committee may summon people, question them, require relevant books or documents, and administer oaths or affirmations. People do not have to answer or produce items if there is a lawful ground not to do so, and the Commission must pay a prescribed witness fee in the stated case.
32.–(1) The Essential Services Committee may- (a) summon for questioning any person to attend a hearing if the Committee considers that, that person’s attendance will assist in the performance of its functions; (b) summon any person, who is believed to have possession or control of any book, document or object relevant to the performance of its functions, to appear before the Committee to be questioned and to produce the book, document or object; (c) administer an oath or accept an affirmation from any person called to give evidence; and (d) question any person about any matter relevant to the performance of its functions. (2) Subsection (1) shall not require any person to answer any question or furnish any information, book, document or object if there is a lawful ground for not doing so. (3) The Commission shall pay the prescribed witness fee to each person who appears before a mediator or arbitrator in response to a summons issued in terms of this section. Administration of Essential Services Committee - 33 Verify source ↗
Administration of Essential Services Committee
The Essential Services Committee may make rules for how it conducts its meetings, and the Commission must provide staff to serve as its Secretariat.
33.–(1) The Essential Services Committee may make rules for the conduct of its meetings. (2) The Commission shall provide staff available to be a Secretariat of the Essential Services Committee to assist it in the performance of its function. 357 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] PART V WAGE BOARD Interpretation
Part
PART V
- 34 Verify source ↗
35. Appointment of Wage Board
For this Part, “Minister” means the Minister responsible for the public service in public service sectors, or the Minister responsible for labour matters in other sectors.
34. For the purpose of this Part, ‘Minister’ means- (a) the Minister responsible for the public service if the sector in respect of which the provisions of this Part are to apply is the whole or part of the public service; or (b) the Minister responsible for labour matters in respect of any other sector. Appointment of Wage Board Acts Nos. 8 of 2006 Sch. 24 of 2015 s. 14 - 35 Verify source ↗
Appointment of Wage Board
The Minister can appoint a Wage Board for a sector and area, and the Board must report its findings and recommendations back to the Minister.
35.–(1) The Minister may appoint a Wage Board in respect of a sector and area to investigate remuneration and terms and conditions of employment in any sector and area and shall report to the Minister on its findings and recommendations. (2) The Minister shall publish a notice in the Gazette prescribing- (a) the names of the individuals appointed as members of the Wage Board; (b) the terms of reference of the investigation, including- the sector and area to be investigated; (i) (ii) the categories and classes of employees to be included in the investigation; (iii) the matters to be investigated; and (c) an invitation to members of the public to make written representations within a period prescribed in the notice. (3) The Wage Board shall consist of the following members- (a) in case of the private sector- (i) the Chairman; (ii) the Secretary; (iii) four members recommended by the Council to represent interests of employees; (iv) four members recommended by the Council to (v) represent interests of the employer; four members recommended by the Council to represent interests of the Government; and 358 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] (vi) three members nominated by virtue of their professions, appointed by the Minister responsible for labour; (b) in case of public sector- (i) the Chairman; (ii) the Secretary; (iii) four members recommended by the Council to represent interests of employees; (iv) four members recommended by the Council to (v) represent interests of the Government; two members nominated by virtue of their professions, appointed by the Minister responsible for public service. (4) A member appointed under subsection (3) shall not be a member of the Council. (5) The appointment of a member under this section shall consider the terms and conditions as may be prescribed in the regulations. (6) A member of a Wage Board shall hold office until- (a) the Minister discharges the Wage Board; (b) the Minister has removed the member in terms of subsection (7). (7) The Minister- (a) may remove a member from office at any time; (b) shall remove a member from office if the member- (i) has resigned in writing and delivered the (ii) resignation to the Permanent Secretary; is guilty of serious misconduct relating to the performance of a member’s functions; (iii) is not able to perform the functions of a member (due to illness or any other reason); (iv) is absent from three consecutive meetings of the Wage Board without permission or good cause; is declared bankrupt; (v) (vi) is convicted of a criminal offence and sentenced to imprisonment without the option of a fine. 359 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Functions and powers of Wage Board (8) Whenever a vacancy occurs on a Wage Board, the Minister shall appoint a member to fill that vacancy in accordance with subsections (2) and (3). (9) The Minister, upon the recommendation of the Permanent Secretary, may determine the allowances to be paid to a member of a Wage Board for attending meetings, travel and subsistence. (10) The Permanent Secretary shall consult with the Permanent Secretary of the Office for Public Service Management prior to making a recommendation stipulated in subsection (9). - 36 Verify source ↗
Functions and powers of Wage Board
The Wage Board must carry out wage and employment-condition investigations, promote collective bargaining, and may question people, request records, hold public hearings, and facilitate negotiations. The Minister may receive recommendations, and the Commission must provide a mediator when asked by the Wage Board.
36.–(1) The functions of a Wage Board shall be within its terms of reference that is- (a) to conduct an investigation on a minimum remuneration and other conditions of employment; (b) to promote collective bargaining between registered trade unions, employers and registered employers’ associations; (c) to make recommendations to the Minister on a minimum wage and conditions of employment. (2) In the performance of its functions within its terms of reference, a Wage Board may- (a) question any person who may be able to provide information relevant to any investigation; (b) require, in writing, any person to furnish any information, book, document or object that is material to the investigation; (c) conduct public hearings; (d) facilitate negotiations on a minimum remuneration and conditions of employment between registered trade unions, employers and registered employers’ associations in the sector. (3) It shall be an offence to refuse to answer any question or furnish any information, book, document or object without a lawful ground for that refusal. 360 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] (4) At the request of a Wage Board, the Commission shall provide a mediator to facilitate the negotiations stipulated in subsection (2)(d). Investigations Cap. 2 - 37 Verify source ↗
38. Report of Wage Board
A Wage Board must consider specified legal sources and relevant facts when conducting an investigation.
37. In any investigation, a Wage Board shall take into account- (a) Articles 22 and 23 of the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania, 1977; (b) any applicable Convention or recommendation of the International Labour Organisation, whether or not the United Republic is a signatory to the Convention; (c) all representations and other information submitted to it; (d) all relevant factors including- (i) the ability of employers to carry on their businesses successfully; (ii) the operation of small, medium and micro- enterprises; (iii) the operation of new enterprises; (iv) the cost of living; the alleviation of poverty; (v) (vi) the minimum subsistence level; (vii) the remuneration and terms and conditions of employment of employees employed in the East African Community in the sector; (viii) any collective agreements providing for remuneration and terms and conditions of employment in the sector; (ix) the likely impact of any proposed condition of employment on current employment or the creation of employment; (x) any other relevant matter. 361 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Report of Wage Board - 38 Verify source ↗
Report of Wage Board
A Wage Board must prepare and submit a report to the Minister after an investigation and consideration of representations, and a dissenting member must file a minority report.
38.–(1) On completion of an investigation and after considering all representations made to it, a Wage Board shall prepare and submit a report to the Minister, which shall consist of- Cap. 366 (a) the board’s findings; (b) its recommendations on- (i) minimum wage for the sector and area; (ii) any term and condition of employment particular to the sector or area, including any variation of a basic employment condition referred to in section 9 of the Employment and Labour Relations Act. (2) Where as a result of any facilitation on the part of a Wage Board, the registered trade unions, employer organisations and employers in the sector conclude a collective agreement on the matters referred to in subsection (1)(b), the Board- (a) shall recommend the extension of that agreement to all employers and employees in the sector and area if the parties to the agreement are sufficiently representative of employers and employees in the sector and area; or (b) may recommend the extension of the agreement or provisions of the agreement to all employers and employees in the sector and area if the parties to the agreement are not sufficiently representative of employers and employees in the sector and area. (3) Where a member of a Wage Board does not agree with a Board’s report or any part thereof, he shall submit a minority report which shall be accompanied with the Board’s report. Making of wage order Act No. 24 of 2015 s. 15 Cap. 105 - 39 Verify source ↗
Making of wage order
The Minister must make a wage order setting minimum wage and employment conditions, and employers must inform workers of the minimum wage in force.
39.–(1) After considering the report and recommendations of the Wage Board and the Council, the Minister shall make a wage order determining the minimum wage and other conditions of employment for employees in any sector and area of economy. (2) For the purpose of this section, “Council” includes Public Service Joint Staff Council established under the Public Service (Negotiating Machinery) Act. (3) A wage order may, in respect of a sector and area- 362 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Cap. 366 (a) set minimum rates of remuneration; (b) provide for the adjustment of minimum rates of remuneration; (c) set minimum terms and conditions of employment including any variation of basic conditions of employment referred to in section 14 of the Employment and Labour Relations Act; (d) regulate task based work, piece work, home work and contract work; (e) set minimum standards for housing and sanitation for employees who reside on the premises of the employer; (f) specify minimum conditions for trainees; (g) regulate workplace training and education; or (h) regulate any other matter concerning remuneration or other terms and conditions of employment. (4) Any provision of a wage order may apply to all or some of the employers and employees in the sector and area concerned. (5) Where the Minister does not accept a recommendation of a Wage Board, the Minister may refer the recommendations back to the Board for its reconsideration indicating the matters on which the Minister disagrees with the Board. (6) Where the Minister fails to make a wage order within thirty days after receipt of the Wages Board and Council’s report, the aggrieved party may, within thirty days, file an application before the Labour Court which shall compel the Minister to make the order within sixty days from the date of filing the application. (7) Every employer shall keep workers informed of the minimum wage rates in force by posting notices at the workplace or by any other more effective means. Period of operation of wage order - 40 Verify source ↗
Period of operation of wage order
A wage order stays binding until it is suspended, cancelled, amended, or replaced.
40.–(1) The provisions of a wage order shall remain binding until they are- (a) suspended or cancelled by the Minister in accordance with subsection (2); (b) amended or superseded by a new wage order; or 363 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] (c) superseded by a collective agreement. (2) The Minister, after consulting the Wage Board and the parties to a wage order, may suspend or cancel all or part of the order by publishing a notice in the Gazette. Legal effect of wage order - 41 Verify source ↗
Legal effect of wage order
A wage order binds the employers and employees named in the notice, and a worker paid below the minimum wage may go to court to recover the underpaid amount.
41.–(1) A wage order shall be binding on all employers and employees described in the notice. Cap. 366 (2) Where a matter regulated in Part III of the Employment and Labour Relations Act is also regulated by a wage order, the provisions in the order shall prevail. (3) Any worker who has been paid wages below the prescribed minimum wage may apply to the District Court or Resident Magistrates’ Court for the recovery of the amount by which the worker was underpaid. Administration of Wage Board Act No. 24 of 2015 s. 16 - 42 Verify source ↗
Administration of Wage Board
The Labour Commissioner must provide Ministry staff to help the Wage Board, and the Wage Board may form sub-committees or hire persons to assist its work, subject to consultation and approval requirements.
42.–(1) The Labour Commissioner shall provide staff members of the Ministry available to assist Wage Board in the performance of its functions. (2) The Wage Board may form sub-committees to assist in the performance of its functions. (3) A Wage Board may contract persons to assist it in the performance of its functions- (a) after consultation with the Labour Commissioner; and (b) with the approval of the Permanent Secretary as to the contractual conditions of employment. PART VI LABOUR ADMINISTRATION AND INSPECTION Appointment of Labour Commissioner and other officers Act No. 24 of 2015 s. 17 Cap. 366
Part
PART VI
- 43 Verify source ↗
Appointment of Labour Commissioner and other officers
The President and the Minister must appoint labour administration and regulation কর্মকর্তারা for the labour institutions system.
43.–(1) The President, shall appoint a Labour Commissioner and a Deputy Labour Commissioner, who shall be responsible for the administration of the labour laws. (2) The Minister shall appoint a Registrar of Organisations and a Deputy Registrar who shall be responsible for the regulation of trade unions, employer organisations and federations under Part IV of the Employment and Labour Relations Act. 364 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Delegation (3) The Minister shall, subject to organisational structure approved by relevant authorities, appoint Assistant Labour Commissioners to assist Labour Commissioner in the performance of his functions. (4) There shall be as many labour officers as are necessary to administer and enforce the labour laws. - 44 Verify source ↗
Delegation
The Labour Commissioner and the Registrar of Organisations may delegate their powers in writing, and may attach, change, or revoke conditions on a delegation.
44.–(1) The Labour Commissioner may, in writing, delegate to the Deputy Labour Commissioner, Assistant Labour Commissioners or any labour officer, any of the Commissioner’s powers, functions and duties. (2) The Registrar of Organisations may, in writing, delegate to the Deputy Registrar any of the Registrar’s powers, functions or duties. (3) The Labour Commissioner or Registrar of Organisations, as the case may be, may- (a) attach conditions to a delegation and may amend or revoke a delegation at any time; (b) vary or set aside any decision made by a person acting in terms of a delegation made in terms of subsection (1) or (2). Powers of labour officers Act No. 24 of 2015 s. 18 - 45 Verify source ↗
Powers of labour officers
A labour officer may inspect premises and records, collect copies or samples, question people, and take enforcement steps for labour law administration.
45.–(1) For the purposes of the administration of labour laws, a labour officer may- (a) at any reasonable time, enter any premises with a prescribed certificate of authorisation and- (i) require that the premises or any part of it shall not be disturbed during an inspection as long as it is reasonably necessary to search the premises; (ii) search for and examine any information book, document or object; (iii) seize or make a copy of any information, book, document or object; (iv) take a sample of any object found; (v) take measurements, readings, recordings or photographs; and 365 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] (vi) question any person on the premises; (b) order, in the prescribed form, any person to appear before him at a specified date, time and place and to question that person; (c) require any person who has control over any information, book, document or object to furnish it and explain any entry in the information, book, document or on the object; (d) examine, make a copy or seize any book, document or object produced in terms of paragraph (c); (e) take a sample of any object produced in terms of paragraph (c); (f) give directions on where notices required in terms of this Act are to be posted; (g) request a member of the Police Force to assist in the exercise of the powers referred to in this subsection; (h) request any person to assist as an interpreter or otherwise in the exercise of the powers referred to in this subsection; institute proceedings in the Resident Magistrate’s Court or District Court in respect of any contravention of any labour law and may appear and prosecute in the name of the Labour Commissioner; (i) (j) educate, advise and oversee the implementation of labour laws; (k) conduct and scrutinize any election or ballot of registered trade union or employer’s association if required to do so by the Labour Court or at the request of the union or association concerned; and (l) upon request, provide employees, employers, registered trade organisations and federations advice and training in skills for avoidance, prevention and settlement of disputes. (2) Any information, book, document, sample or object referred to in this section shall be relevant to the enforcement and administration of the labour laws. 366 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Power to compound offences Act No. 4 of 2016 s. 33 (3) A labour officer shall issue a receipt for any book, document or object seized in terms of this section. (4) Where asked, a labour officer shall produce the certificate referred to in subsection (1)(a). (5) A police officer requested to assist in terms of subsection (1), or any person requested to assist in terms of subsection (1), may accompany the labour officer as if that member or person were a labour officer. (6) An individual in charge of any premises on which individuals are employed shall provide facilities as may be reasonably required in order for a labour officer to exercise the powers referred to in subsection (1). - 46 Verify source ↗
Power to compound offences
A labour officer may compound certain labour-law offences by ordering payment, and must give a receipt and report social security contribution defaults.
46.–(1) The labour officer may, if satisfied that any person has not complied with any provision of the labour laws or regulations made under this Act, by order, compound such offences by requiring such person to make payment of a sum of money except that- (a) such sum of money shall not be less than one hundred thousand shillings; and (b) the labour officer shall give a receipt to the person from whom he receive such sum of money. (2) Where an offence is compounded in accordance with the provisions of subsection(1) and proceedings are brought against the offender for the same offence, it shall be a good defence for the offender to prove to the satisfaction of the court that, the offence with which the offender is charged has been compounded under subsection (1). (3) Any person who is aggrieved by any order made under subsection (1) may, within thirty days from the date of that order, appeal to the Labour Commissioner. (4) Where the employer fails to comply with the order given under this section within the prescribed time, the labour officer shall, in addition to the sum of money ordered, require the employer to pay an interest at the rate prescribed in the regulations. 367 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Compliance order (5) Subject to the provisions of this section, the labour officer may seek for an execution order against the employer who fails to comply with the order issued under this section. (6) Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, where the labour officer during inspection finds that the employer has defaulted to remit contributions or has under-declared contributions to any social security fund, the labour officer shall immediately report such matter to the relevant social security fund. [s. 45A] - 47 Verify source ↗
Compliance order
A labour officer may issue a compliance order if they reasonably believe an employer has not complied with labour laws. The order must be served on the employer, affected union(s), and affected employees, and the employer must display and comply with it within the stated period.
47.–(1) A labour officer who has reasonable grounds to believe that an employer has not complied with a provision of the labour laws may issue a compliance order in the prescribed form. (2) The labour officer shall serve the compliance order on- (a) the employer; (b) any registered trade union with members among the employees affected by the order; (c) each employee affected by it. (3) The failure to serve the stipulated order on the persons stipulated in subsection (2)(b) shall not invalidate the order. (4) The employer shall display a copy of the order prominently at a place accessible to the affected employees at each workplace named in the order. (5) An employer shall comply with a compliance order issued in terms of subsection (1) within the period stated in the order. (6) The Labour Commissioner may apply to the Labour Court to enforce the compliance order if the employer has not complied with the order and has not objected to the order in terms of section 48(1). [s. 46] Objections to compliance order - 48 Verify source ↗
Objections to compliance order
An employer may object in writing to a compliance order within 30 days of receiving it, and must serve and display the objection as required.
48.–(1) An employer may object in writing to a compliance order issued in terms of section 47 within thirty days of receipt of that order. 368 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] (2) The employer shall- (a) serve the objection on the Labour Commissioner; (b) serve a copy of the objection on any registered trade union with members among the employees; and (c) display a copy of the objection in a prominent place accessible to the employees affected by the order. (3) The Labour Commissioner, on good cause, may condone a late objection made in terms of subsection (1). (4) After considering any representations by the employer, the employees or a registered trade union, the Labour Commissioner- (a) may confirm, modify or cancel an order; (b) shall specify the period within which the employer shall comply with any confirmed or modified order. (5) The Labour Commissioner shall serve a copy of the order made under subsection (4) on- (a) the employer; (b) any registered trade union with members among the employees affected by the order; and (c) the employees affected by the order. (6) The failure to serve a copy of the order on the persons stipulated in subsection (5)(b) and (c) shall not invalidate the order. (7) Where the Labour Commissioner confirms or modifies an order made under subsection (4), the employer shall comply with that order within the period specified in that order. (8) The Labour Commissioner may apply to the Labour Court to enforce the compliance order if the employer has not complied with the order and has not lodged an appeal in terms of section 49. [s. 47] Appeals from order of Labour Commissioner - 49 Verify source ↗
Appeals from order of Labour Commissioner
An employer may appeal a Labour Commissioner order to the Labour Court within 30 days, and the Labour Court can suspend, condone late appeals on good cause, or confirm, modify, or cancel the order.
49.–(1) An employer may appeal to the Labour Court against an order of the Labour Commissioner within thirty days of receipt of the order. 369 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Offences in relation to labour officers (2) Upon an application by the employer, the Labour Court may, on such terms and conditions as it may impose, suspend the order of the Labour Commissioner pending the final order of the Labour Court or any other appeal against the decision of the Labour Court. (3) The Labour Court, on good cause, may condone any appeal made after expiry of the thirty days. (4) The Labour Court may confirm, modify or cancel an order, and the order in respect of which is confirmed, modified or cancelled shall specify the period within which the employer shall comply with the confirmed or modified order. [s. 48] - 50 Verify source ↗
Offences in relation to labour officers
A person commits an offence if they obstruct a labour officer, refuse required cooperation or information, give false information, ignore lawful requests or orders, or falsely claim to be a labour officer.
50.–(1) Subject to subsection (2), a person who commits any of the following acts commits an offence- (a) hindering or obstructing a labour officer in the performance of the officer’s functions or the exercise of the officer’s powers; (b) refusing or failing to answer, without good reason, any question put by a labour officer in terms of section 45(1)(a)(vi) or (1)(c); (c) refusing or failing to appear in terms of section 45(1)(b); (d) refusing or failing to furnish any information, book, document or object after being required to do so in terms of section 45(1)(c); (e) wilfully furnishing false and misleading information to a labour officer; (f) refusing or failing to comply with any lawful request of, or lawful order by, a labour officer or any other person performing a function in terms of this Act or any other labour law; (g) falsely claiming to be a labour officer. 370 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Establishment and constitution of Labour Court Acts Nos. 8 of 2006 Sch. 17 of 2010 s. 19 3 of 2020 s. 67 (2) It shall not be an offence to refuse to answer a question or produce any information, book, document or object where there is a lawful ground for the refusal. [s. 49] PART VII LABOUR COURT
Part
PART VII
- 51 Verify source ↗
Establishment and constitution of Labour Court
This section establishes the Labour Division of the High Court and sets out how it is staffed, constituted, and how decisions and costs are handled.
51.–(1) There shall be established a Labour Division of the High Court. (2) The Labour Division of the High Court shall consist of- (a) such number of Judges as the Chief Justice may consider necessary, one of whom shall be designated by Chief Justice as Judge In-Charge who shall head the Labour Court and shall designate any Judge to be in charge of any court zonal centre; (b) such number of Deputy Registrars as the Chief Justice may consider necessary; and (c) two panels of assessors appointed in terms of section 54. (3) The Labour Division of the High Court shall be constituted by a Judge sitting with at least two assessors nominated by the presiding Judge from each of the panels appointed in terms of subsection (2)(c) of this section, provided that, it shall not be necessary for the Judge to sit with assessors- (a) in application proceedings; (b) where the parties to the dispute agree; or (c) where it is necessary for the expeditious determination of proceedings. (4) The decision of the Labour Court shall be made by the Judge after taking into account the opinions of the assessors, if any, and if the Judge does not agree with such opinions, the Judge shall give reasons. (5) Proceedings of the Labour Division of the High Court shall not be invalid for the reasons only that- (a) the appointment of an assessor was defective; 371 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] (b) after the commencement of the proceedings, the Court proceeds without an assessor because- (i) an assessor is unable to sit; or (ii) the Judge of the Labour Court removes the assessor from the proceedings in the interest of the administration of justice. (6) Fees, cost or interest shall not be payable in respect of any proceedings before the Court under the provisions of this Act. (7) Notwithstanding subsection (6)- (a) where any proceedings appear to the Court to be frivolous or vexatious, the Court may, in its discretion, order the party initiating such proceedings to defray the general costs and interest and, in default of payment, the said party shall be liable to imprisonment for such a period not exceeding one month as may be ordered by the court; and (b) the general cost or interest may be imposed upon the occasion of the trial and without any action or proceeding for the recovery. [s. 50] Jurisdiction of Labour Court Act No. 8 of 2006 Sch. - 52 Verify source ↗
Jurisdiction of Labour Court
The Labour Court has exclusive civil jurisdiction over matters reserved to it by the labour laws, subject to the Constitution and labour laws.
52. Subject to the Constitution and the labour laws and over any employment matter falling under common law, tortious liability, vicarious liability or breach of contract within the pecuniary jurisdiction of the High Court, the Labour Court has exclusive civil jurisdiction over any matter reserved for its decision by the labour laws. [s. 51] Powers of Labour Court Act No. 8 of 2006 Sch. - 53 Verify source ↗
Powers of Labour Court
The Labour Court has the same powers as the High Court when carrying out its functions, may consider listed policy factors when making decisions, and may transfer pending matters to another competent court in some cases.
53.–(1) In the performance of its functions, the Labour Court shall have all the powers of the High Court, save that in making a judgment, ruling, decision, order or decree in so far as it is relevant, the Court may take into account or consider the need- (a) to maintain a high level of domestic capital accumulation with a view to increasing the rate of economic growth and to provide greater employment opportunities; 372 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] (b) to maintain and expand the level of employment; (c) to develop payment-by-result schemes, or other wage incentive structures, which will induce an employee to make greater effort and relate increases in labour productivity; (d) to prevent gains in the wages of the employees from being affected adversely by unnecessary and unjustified price increases; (e) to preserve and promote the competitive position of local products in the domestic market as well as in the global market; (f) to establish and maintain reasonable differentials in rewards between different categorise of skills and levels of responsibility; (g) for the United Republic, to maintain a favourable balance of trade and balance of payment; (h) to ensure the continued ability of Government to finance development programs and recurrent expenditure in the public sector; (i) to maintain a fair relation between the incomes of different sectors of the community; or (j) for any scientific or social matter of great importance which the court may deem necessary and just to take into account or consider. (2) Subject to the provisions of subsection (1), on application of any of the parties and after hearing such parties as desired to be heard or on its own motion without such notice, the Labour Court may at any stage transfer any matter submitted and pending before it for trial or disposal: Provided that, the matter is not resolved for the exclusive jurisdiction of the Labour Court by labour laws to another court of competent jurisdiction. (3) Where any matter has been transferred under subsection (2), the competent court shall proceed to retry it or proceed from the state at which it was transferred. [s. 52] 373 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Assessors Acts Nos. 8 of 2006 Sch. 17 of 2010 s. 20 - 54 Verify source ↗
Assessors
This section sets out how assessor panels are made up and when the Judge Chairman may suspend an assessor or panel member.
54.–(1) The panels of assessors referred to in section 51(2)(c) shall be constituted as follows- (a) an employer panel drawn from a list of names nominated by the members of the Council representing the interests of employers; and (b) an employee panel drawn from a list of names nominated by the members of the Council representing the interests of employees. (2) The Judge Chairman may suspend a person from a panel referred to in subsection (1)- (a) where that person has resigned in writing and delivered the resignation to the Registrar of the Labour Court; (b) for misconduct inconsistent with the ethics of an assessor; (c) for inability to perform the functions of an assessor due to illness or any other reason; (d) where that person fails to attend a hearing without permission of the Judge; (e) where that person is declared bankrupt; or (f) where that person is convicted of a criminal offence and sentenced to imprisonment. (3) Where the Judge Chairman or presiding Judge suspends any assessor or person from a panel of assessors constituting the Court, the Judge Chairman shall recommend to the appointing authority for his removal from the roll of assessors. [s. 53] Deputy Registrars Acts Nos. 8 of 2006 Sch. 3 of 2020 s. 68 Cap. 237 Cap. 33 - 55 Verify source ↗
Deputy Registrars
Deputy Registrars must exercise the powers and perform the duties given to them under the cited law and rules.
55.–(1) There shall be Deputy Registrars who shall exercise powers and perform such duties as are conferred under- (a) section 28(8) of the Judiciary Administration Act; (b) Order XLIII of the Civil Procedure Code; and (c) rules made by the Chief Justice under section 56. [s. 54] 374 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Rules of Labour Court GN. No. 106 of 2007 - 56 Verify source ↗
Rules of Labour Court
The Chief Justice must make Labour Court practice-and-procedure rules after consulting the Minister, and the rules must be published in the Gazette.
56.–(1) The Chief Justice, after consultation with the Minister, shall make rules to govern the practice and procedure of the Labour Court. (2) The rules shall, by notice, be published in the Gazette. [s. 55] Representation in Labour Court - 57 Verify source ↗
Representation in Labour Court
A party in Labour Court proceedings may appear personally or be represented by certain listed persons.
57. In any proceedings before the Labour Court, a party to the proceedings may appear in person or be represented by- (a) an official of a registered trade union or employers’ organisation; (b) a personal representative of the party’s own choice; or (c) an advocate. [s. 56] Appeals from decisions of Labour Court - 58 Verify source ↗
Appeals from decisions of Labour Court
Any party in Labour Court proceedings may appeal the Labour Court decision to the Court of Appeal of Tanzania, but only on a point of law.
58. Any party to the proceedings in the Labour Court may appeal against the decision of that Court to the Court of Appeal of Tanzania on a point of law only. [s. 57] References by Labour Commissioner to Labour Court and Court of Appeal of Tanzania - 59 Verify source ↗
References by Labour Commissioner to Labour Court and
The Labour Commissioner may refer points of law to the Labour Court or, in some cases, to the Court of Appeal, and must serve each reference on the Council.
59.–(1) The Labour Commissioner may- (a) refer any point of law, other than the point of law referred to in paragraph (b), to the Labour Court- (b) refer a point of law to the Court of Appeal if- (i) there are conflicting decisions of the Labour Court in respect of the same point of law; and (ii) the parties to the proceedings in those decisions have not appealed. (2) The Labour Commissioner shall serve any reference under subsection (1) on the Council. (3) Any registered organisation or registered federation with an interest in the subject matter of any reference under paragraph (a) or paragraph (b) may apply to the Court to which the reference is made to be joined as parties to the proceedings. [s. 58] 375 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Confidentiality PART VIII GENERAL PROVISIONS
Part
PART VIII
- 60 Verify source ↗
Confidentiality
A person must not disclose protected information about another person’s financial or business affairs if it was obtained while exercising powers or performing functions under the Act, unless one of the listed exceptions applies.
60.–(1) Subject to provisions of subsection (2), it shall be an offence for any person to disclose any information relating to the financial or business affairs of another person where that information was acquired in the performance of any function or the exercise of any power under this Act. (2) Subsection (1) shall not apply where the information is disclosed in compliance with this Act- (a) to enable a person to perform a function or exercise a power under this Act; (b) in accordance with any written law; (c) for the purpose of the proper administration of this Act; (d) for the purposes of the administration of justice. [s. 59] Burden of proof - 61 Verify source ↗
Burden of proof
This section shifts the burden of proof in labour-law proceedings to the employer in some cases, and in certain civil cases to the person alleging the contravention and then to the party accused.
61.–(1) In any proceedings concerning a contravention of any labour law, it shall be for the employer- (a) to prove that a record maintained by or for that employer is valid and accurate; (b) who has failed to keep a record required by any labour law, to prove compliance with any provision of those laws. (2) In any civil proceedings concerning a contravention of a labour law- (a) the person who alleges that a right or protection conferred by any labour law has been contravened shall prove the facts of the conduct said to constitute the contravention unless the provisions of subsection (1)(b) apply; and (b) the party who is alleged to have engaged in the conduct in question shall then prove that the conduct does not constitute a contravention. [s. 60] 376 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] Presumption as to who is employee - 62 Verify source ↗
Presumption as to who is employee
A person who works for or provides services to another person is presumed to be an employee if one or more listed factors is present, unless the contrary is proved.
62. For the purposes of a labour law, a person who works for, or renders services to, any other person is presumed, until the contrary is proved, to be an employee, regardless of the form of the contract, if any one or more of the following factors is present- (a) the manner in which the person works is subject to the control or direction of another person; (b) the person’s hours of work are subject to the control or direction of another person; (c) in the case of a person who works for an organisation, the person is a part of that organisation; (d) the person has worked for that other person for an average of at least forty five hours per month over the last three months; (e) the person is economically dependent on the other person for whom that person works or renders services; (f) the person is provided with tools of trade or work equipment by the other person; or (g) the person only works for or renders services to one person. [s. 61] Guidelines - 63 Verify source ↗
Guidelines
The Minister may issue, change, or replace guidelines after consulting the Council, and people applying the Act must take those guidelines into account.
63.–(1) The Minister, after consultation with the Council, may- (a) issue guidelines for the proper administration of this Act; (b) change or replace a guideline. (2) Any guideline or any change to, or replacement of, a code or guideline shall be published in the Gazette. (3) A person interpreting or applying this Act shall take into account any guideline published under this section. (4) Where a person departs from the guideline, that person shall justify the departure. [s. 62] - 64 Verify source ↗
Offences
This section makes several acts offences, including breaching specified sections or rules, improperly influencing a person carrying out a function, using fraud or forged documents, impersonating an appointed person, giving false information, and obstructing or disobeying lawful orders.
64.–(1) It shall be an offence to contravene sections 36, 50, 60 or any other section of or rules made under this Act. 377 Offences Acts Nos. 8 of 2006 Sch. 17 of 2010 s. 21 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] (2) It is an offence to- (a) attempt to influence improperly a person who is performing a function in terms of this law or any other labour law; (b) obtain or attempt to obtain any document by means of fraud, false pretences, or by presenting or submitting a false or forged document; (c) pretend to be any person appointed in terms of this Act or any other labour law; (d) furnish false information knowing that the information is false; or (e) hinder, obstruct or disobey any lawful order issued by a person performing a function in terms of this Act or any other labour law. [s. 63] - 65 Verify source ↗
Penalties
A District Court that includes a Resident Magistrate’s Court may impose penalties for offences under the Act. Convictions under section 64(1) carry a fine up to five million shillings, up to three months’ imprisonment, or both; convictions under section 64(2) of section 64 carry a fine up to ten million shillings, up to six months’ imprisonment, or both.
65.–(1) A District Court which includes a Resident Magistrate’s Court shall have jurisdiction to impose a penalty for an offence under this Act. (2) A person convicted of any of the offences referred to in section 64(1) shall be liable to- (a) a fine not exceeding five million shillings; (b) imprisonment for a period of three months; or (c) both. (3) A person convicted of any of the offences referred to in subsection (2) of section 64 shall be liable to- (a) a fine not exceeding ten million shillings; (b) imprisonment for a period of six months; or (c) both. [s. 64] Penalties Regulations - 66 Verify source ↗
Regulations
The Minister may make regulations and prescribe forms for carrying out this Act, after consulting the Council.
66.–(1) The Minister, after consultation with the Council, may make regulations and prescribe forms for the purpose of carrying out or giving effect to the principles and provisions of this Act. 378 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] (2) In particular and without prejudice to the generality of the powers conferred by subsection (1) of this section, the Minister may make regulations for or in respect of all or any of the following matters- (a) all matters stated or required in this Act to be prescribed; (b) conduct of investigations by the Council; (c) procedure for appointing members of the Council to represent the interests of employers and employees; (d) regulating the establishment and conduct of committees of the Council (e) appointment and discharge of Wage Board; (f) regulating investigations, public hearings and facilitation of negotiations by Wage Board; (g) procedure for the suspension, cancellation, amendment or suspension of a wage order; (h) regulating the exercise of labour officers’ powers of investigation and prosecution; (i) regulating the issuing of compliance orders and objections to those orders; (j) regulating the removal of members, Commissioners, mediators and arbitrators from office; or (k) regulating annual reports of the Council and the Commission. [s. 65] - 67 Verify source ↗
Savings and transitional provisions
This section defines “repealed laws” and treats certain labour office holders appointed under the repealed laws as appointed under this Act in corresponding roles.
67.–(1) For the purpose of this section, “repealed laws” means the laws repealed under section 105 of the Employment and Labour Relations Act. (2) The Labour Commissioner, Registrar of Trade Union, Deputy Registrar of a Trade Union and labour officers appointed under the repealed laws are deemed to be appointed under this Act as the Labour Commissioner, Registrar of Organisations, Deputy Registrar of Organisations and labour officers respectively. [s. 66] 379 Savings and transitional provisions Cap. 366 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG. THE LABOUR INSTITUTIONS ACT [CAP. 300 R.E. 2023] SCHEDULE OATHS OF OFFICE (Made under section 21) OATH FOR COMMISSIONERS I, .................................................., having been appointed a Commissioner of the Commission for Mediation and Arbitration, do swear/affirm that I will discharge my functions without bias and will not directly or indirectly reveal any information that comes into my possession without the authorisation of the Commission or the Labour Court. SO HELP ME GOD Sworn/Affirmed before me on this ....................day of ................20.......... ................................. President OATH FOR DIRECTOR, MEDIATOR OR ARBITRATOR been I,....................................................................................., appointed a Director / Mediator / Arbitrator of the Commission for Mediation and Arbitration, do swear/affirm that I will discharge my functions without bias and will not directly or indirectly reveal any information that comes into my possession without the authorisation of the Commission or the Labour Court. having SO HELP ME GOD Sworn/Affirmed before me on this ....................day of ............. 20........... .................................... Judge of the High Court 380 ©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.
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