The Congress of South African Trade Unions(COSATU) congratulates its affiliate, the Southern African Clothing and Textile Workers’ Union(SACTWU) on reaching the 34th anniversary milestone today, the 16th of September. For decades, SACTWU has been championing the rights of workers in the clothing and textile industry, defending its members tirelessly while pushing against acute production conditions.
Similarly to other sectors, workers employed in the clothing and textile industry have burnt the brunt of the current volatile economy which has put strain on jobs and wages. The advent of the COVID-19 epidemic also gutted jobs in these sectors. Despite this, SACTWU stood firm and helped mitigate these economic challenges by spearheading wage negotiations and concluding multiple agreements at various bargaining councils successfully. It led from the front in ensuring that its members were assisted by the Unemployment Insurance Fund during the lockdown and mobilized workers to access their vaccines through the Bargaining Council clinics.
SACTWU has led the fight in support of local procurement as the quickest and most sustainable way of protecting and creating badly needed local jobs.
Among other achievements this year, the union secured wage increases of 7% and above in the footwear, general goods and handbag and polypropylene textile sectors. COSATU applauds its affiliate for also fostering improved working conditions and terms of employment for its members. Over the past years, the union has won victories for workers with the expansion of these sectors’ Family Responsibility Leave provision recently.
The majority of workers in the clothing and textile industry are women, who are breadwinners and providers in their households. By constantly playing its role of being a shield to these workers, SACTWU has contributed greatly in safeguarding families across the country.
May the revolutionary spirit of SACTWU continue for more decades!
Long Live SACTWU, long live!
Issued by COSATU
For further information please contact:
Matthew Parks
Acting National Spokesperson & Parliamentary Coordinator
Cell: 082 785 0687