In Tanzania, employee rights are protected by law to ensure fair treatment, health, and work–life balance. One of the most important employee rights is the right to leave. These rights are clearly provided under the Employment and Labour Relations Act, 2004 (ELRA). This article provides a clear and comprehensive explanation of the 10 main types of leave (Likizo Muhimu Kwa mwajiriwa Tanzania) that an employee in Tanzania is entitled to, whether by law or through workplace policies.
1. Annual Leave
Annual leave is a mandatory and statutory right for every employee in Tanzania.
- An employee is entitled to at least 28 days of paid annual leave after completing 12 consecutive months of service.
- The leave must be taken with full pay.
- An employer is not allowed to replace annual leave with cash, except when employment is terminated.
- The purpose of annual leave is to allow employees time to rest, recover, and maintain productivity.
Failure to grant annual leave is a violation of labour law.
2. Maternity Leave
Maternity leave is a legal right for female employees.
- 84 days of paid maternity leave for the birth of a single child.
- 100 days of paid maternity leave in the case of twins or multiple births.
- Maternity leave is granted with full salary.
- A woman must not be dismissed, demoted, or discriminated against due to pregnancy.
- Maternity leave can be taken up to four times during employment with the same employer, unless medical reasons justify otherwise.
This provision protects both the health of the mother and the child.
3. Paternity Leave
Paternity leave applies to male employees.
- A male employee is entitled to 3 consecutive days of paid paternity leave.
- The leave is granted upon the birth of his lawful spouse’s child.
- It is fully paid.
- The purpose is to allow fathers to support their families during childbirth and early care.
4. Sick Leave
Sick leave is mandatory when an employee is unwell.
- An employee is entitled to up to 126 days of sick leave within a period of 36 months.
- Payment structure:
- First 63 days – full salary
- Next 63 days – half salary
- A medical certificate from a recognized health facility is required.
- An employer is not allowed to terminate employment due to illness within this legal period.
This ensures job security during health challenges.
5. Bereavement (Compassionate) Leave
Bereavement leave is granted when an employee experiences the death of a close family member.
- Applies to the death of:
- A parent
- A child
- A spouse
- The number of days granted depends on the employer’s internal policy or employment agreement.
- The objective is to allow the employee time to mourn and manage family responsibilities.
6. Marriage Leave
Marriage leave is usually granted when an employee gets married.
- It is not explicitly mandatory under the law, but commonly provided by employers.
- The duration typically ranges from 3 to 7 days.
- Conditions depend on the organization’s policy or employment contract.
7. Public Holiday Leave
Employees are entitled to rest on all official public holidays declared by the Government of Tanzania.
- Public holidays are legally recognized nationwide.
- If an employee works on a public holiday:
- They must receive additional compensation, or
- Be paid according to overtime or holiday pay regulations.
Employers must respect all gazetted public holidays.
8. Emergency Leave
Emergency leave is granted in unforeseen and urgent situations.
Examples include:
- Sudden illness of a close family member
- Accidents
- Serious family emergencies
- The duration and payment depend on mutual agreement between employer and employee.
- Many organizations outline this leave in their internal HR policies.
9. Religious Leave
Religious leave may be granted to allow employees to observe important religious obligations.
- It may cover:
- Special religious prayers
- Major religious festivals
- Employers are encouraged to respect religious diversity.
- The leave may be paid or unpaid, depending on company policy.
10. Study Leave
Study leave is provided to employees pursuing education or training.
- May apply to:
- Academic studies
- Professional training
- Examinations
- Often granted when the course is relevant to the employee’s job.
- Conditions are usually specified in:
- Employment contracts, or
- Special training agreements
Leave is a fundamental right of every employee and a legal obligation for employers under Tanzanian labour law. Employers must comply with these provisions, while employees should follow proper procedures when applying for leave to avoid disputes. Understanding these rights promotes fairness, productivity, and a healthy working environment.
