The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) will on December 03, 2022 commemorates its 40th Anniversary under the theme “NUM, The Shield and Spear that Defend Mine, Energy, Construction and Metal Workers. The Weapon Used to Fight Capitalism” at the old Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane in Limpopo.

Established on the 4th December 1982 in Klerksdorp, now known as Matlosana, the NUM has throughout the years been the only voice of the voiceless workers. 

Under the leadership of the tried and tested leaders such as Cyril Ramaphosa as General Secretary, James Motlatsi as President and Elijah Barayi as Deputy President, the NUM became the fasted growing trade union around the world with a membership of well above 300 000 black mineworkers in the early 1980s. The NUM became a key stakeholder in the formation of the country’s biggest federation of trade unions, COSATU, in 1985.

It played a critical and unique role in that process that ended the apartheid regime with the first democratic elections in South African history in 1994. It is through the NUM gallant fight that miners who have for many years of service given only a helmet and a pair of boots on their retirement and are today able to receive various benefits.

There will be a presidential networking session on the night of December 2, 2022 at Meropa Casino, which will be a tone setting to the main 40th anniversary celebration.  

Amongst the invited guests to the 40th National Anniversary Celebration at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium include former NUM founder leaders, COSATU, SACP and ANC leaders, and the international fraternal trade union federations.

The crowd at the stadium are set to be entertained by various local artists. Members of the media are invited to the event.

For more detailed information, please contact:

Daniel Balepile, NUM President, 074 439 9752

Livhuwani Mammburu, NUM National Spokesperson, 083 809 3257

Luphert Chilwane, NUM Media Officer, 083 809 3255