Engaging in lively discussion over a well-stocked buffet and cellar; indulging in the pleasures of music and jokes; having uninhibited fun like merrymakers, all centered around the five employees honored for the exceptional quality of their work. This May 1, 2025, this is precisely the goal of the staff of the Cameroon Real Estate Company (SIC). On this day, nothing directly suggests the calm that often emanates from the premises of the company’s general management, located in the Hippodrome district in Yaoundé. What is taking place and unfolding here on the occasion of the 138th edition of International Labor Day, reveals the hidden codes of a peaceful social climate at SIC.
To express it in their own way, the staff representatives commend their employer’s performance. According to them, a few indicators suffice to demonstrate this. These include, among others: “the application of the new 2024 collective agreement; monthly salary payments; the frequent holding of promotion and reclassification committees; monthly meetings with staff representatives; the maintenance of health coverage; the awarding of labor honor medals to staff; staff training and capacity building; cleanliness in the work environment; the improvement of working conditions through the purchase of rolling stock; systematic visits”.
To these accolades are added a few grievances. These include: “the full application of the collective agreement; 100% health coverage for all staff; health insurance; payment of salaries on the 25th of each month; the effective launch of the SIC mutual fund; the permanent presence and availability of the company doctor; the priority of dialogue instead of frustrations and sanctions in departments; the assurance of a 50% bonus and the organization of a farewell ceremony for retired SIC agents”.
Seizing the opportunity, the General Manager, Dr. Ahmadou Sardaouna, assures that significant further progress has been made (review of the organizational chart; increasing attention paid to corporate social responsibility; implementation of the ethics code; ongoing review of internal regulations and staff status, as well as the “drafting of establishment agreements” submitted for approval by the Board of Directors; promotion of youth employment through the launch of the first phase of the triennial recruitment plan adopted by the Board of Directors, which resulted in the recruitment of 35 new staff members; establishment of social dialogue through periodic meetings set up by the Occupational Health, Safety and Hygiene Committee; regular payment of the 13th month salary since 2019; payment of 10% of SIC’s profit to staff).
In his speech, the General Manager of SIC emphasized that it is the work carried out by all staff that brings about the joy of this May 1, 2025. After recalling the merits of International Labor Day, the “boss” reminds that International Labor Day is also forward-looking. “Together, let’s build a serious SIC and Cameroon where every citizen can aspire to a better future. Let us commit to making social dialogue and decent work the pillars of our action”, urges Dr. Ahmadou Sardaouna.
