The Challenges Faced by Trade Unions in Improving Employee Welfare and Strategies to Address Them: A Case of the Tanzania Union of Government and Health Employees (TUGHE) at the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF)

Abstract

This study explored the challenges trade unions face in improving employee welfare and strategies to curb them drawing from the functions of the Tanzania Union of Government and Health Employees (TUGHE) in the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF). The study used the Scarcity Consciousness Theory which advocates that individuals' or groups’ perception of the insufficiency of resources influences their decision making. The study employed a case study design and specifically the qualitative approach. The targeted population was the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) employees at Dodoma Municipality, whose estimated number was two hundred and sixteen (216). A sample of one hundred and twenty (120) TUGHE participants was selected using probability and non-probability sampling techniques. Data was collected using a questionnaire and interview. In data analysis specifically, content analysis coupled with simple descriptive statistics was applied. The findings indicated that in improving employees' welfare at NHIF, TUGHE officers face high expectations from employees, pressure from members, misunderstanding, high deduction fees, and lack of office space. As the strategies to overcome these challenges, the trade union provides education, engages in negotiations, ensures transparency, and organizes meetings and discussions.  The study concludes that TUGHE should maintain transparency in its decision-making processes, should strengthen financial management, and communication among members. The study recommends the enhancement of communication channels, advocacy for legal protections, and regular meetings as ways to overcome the challenges and improve the employees’ welfare in the workplace.