They also want their salaries to be paid in US dollars as the local currency rapidly devalues.

The government is doubling salaries this month, but unions say the increases have been eroded by high inflation which stands at about 190%.

Schools, health facilities and government services could face major disruptions as unions told the BBC that they expect all their workers to stay home.

But the strike does not seem to have been well observed, with teachers seeming to be at work.

The average worker including doctors and nurses earn about $200 (£165) a month.

The Zimbabwe dollar has lost over 50% of its value since January, partly due to the war in Ukraine.

Unions are planning a longer strike in September if their demands are not met.