On Wednesday, the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) and the ANC Veterans League came together to mark the 70th anniversary of the South African Congress of Trade Unions (SACTU), with an event that highlighted the enduring legacy of SACTU and its transformative role in the struggle for workers’ rights and social justice. The occasion was broadcast live by SADTU Online Television, bringing together prominent leaders from COSATU, the ANC, the SACP, and the ANC Veterans League, as well as veterans from the liberation struggle and trade union movement.

The 70th anniversary celebration saw the presence of leading figures in the political and trade union movements, including senior current and former leaders of the liberation and trade union movement, including former Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe, Ronnie Kasrils, COSATU President Zingiswa Losi, General Secretary Solly Phetoe, and veteran trade unionists such as Bheki Ntshalintshali, Thozamile Botha, and Sydney Mafumadi. The event was also graced by the Secretary General of the ANC Veterans League, Ivie McKay Langa.

Throughout the occasion, the audience was moved by the reflections of SACTU Veterans, some of whom were part of the underground movement during the apartheid era and were instrumental in the formation of SACTU. These veterans shared gripping personal stories, shedding light on the origins of SACTU, their underground activities, and the sacrifices they made for the liberation of the working class.

One of the veterans, who co-authored the iconic book Organise or Starve, shared a profound quote: “In the darkest hours of apartheid, when hope seemed a distant dream, we understood that organising was not just a choice – it was survival. To organise was to fight, and to fight was to survive. This principle became our guiding light, and it is as vital today as it was then.” These words captured the essence of the struggle and underscored the deep commitment of SACTU’s founding members to the cause of workers and liberation.

In her opening remarks, Losi emphasised the enduring legacy of SACTU and the role of trade unions in the ongoing fight for workers’ rights. “SACTU laid the foundation for the labour movement in this country. It was born in the heart of oppression, yet it stood as a beacon of hope and solidarity. As we celebrate 70 years, we honour the past and look toward the future,” she said.

Losi acknowledged the continuing challenges facing workers, particularly in sectors such as mining, transport, and energy. She called for renewed efforts to rebuild and strengthen unions, ensuring they remain a powerful force for change in South Africa’s evolving political and economic landscape.

Kasrils, a renowned anti-apartheid activist, reminded the audience of the crucial role that SACTU played in challenging the oppressive apartheid system. “SACTU was not just a trade union; it was a revolutionary movement. It brought together the working class to confront the injustice that sought to exploit us all. The road to freedom was long and fraught with danger, but it was a road paved by the efforts of brave men and women who fought for dignity and justice.”

Former General Secretary of NUM, ANC, and Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe spoke about the political and economic landscape in which SACTU was formed, praising its vision and commitment to worker liberation. “We cannot ignore the immense contribution SACTU made to the political struggle against apartheid. The fight for workers’ rights was inseparable from the struggle for political freedom. SACTU was a critical part of our victory over apartheid,” said Motlanthe.

Bheki Ntshalintshali, COSATU’s former General Secretary, shared his reflections on the labour movement’s evolution. “We stand on the shoulders of giants. SACTU gave birth to COSATU, and as its successor, we must ensure that we continue to fight for the dignity of workers. Today, we face a diverse set of challenges, but the spirit of solidarity and unity that defined SACTU must guide us in this new era,” Ntshalintshali emphasised.

Thozamile Botha, a long-time trade unionist, spoke about the need for unity within the labour movement. “The unity that SACTU fostered between workers, irrespective of race or sector, is something we must continue to nurture. Our strength lies in our collective action,” said Botha.

Sydney Mafumadi, COSATU’s first Deputy General Secretary, spoke about the need to renew and strengthen the union movement. “SACTU’s founding principle of ‘one industry, one union, one country’ must continue to resonate with us. We must remain vigilant in the face of political and economic pressures that seek to divide us,” said Mafumadi.

Solly Phetoe, COSATU’s General Secretary, delivered the closing remarks, urging all workers and trade unions to unite in the ongoing fight for economic justice and workers’ rights. “As we mark 70 years of SACTU, let us not forget the sacrifices made by those who came before us. We must carry their legacy forward, ensuring that the fight for dignity and equality continues for future generations of workers,” said Phetoe.

In her vote of thanks, Ivie McKay Langa, the Secretary General of the ANC Veterans League, expressed gratitude for the work of COSATU and the ANC Veterans League in ensuring that the legacy of SACTU endures. “We are proud to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with you in the fight for workers’ rights. The road ahead is long, but as long as we remain united, the future is bright,” Langa said.

As the event concluded, the speakers called for continued solidarity and collective action to tackle the pressing issues facing South Africa today. “Our work is not done,” said Losi. “We must unite, strengthen our movement, and fight for the future of our children and grandchildren. The spirit of SACTU is alive, and it is more important than ever.”

Issued by COSATU and the ANC Veterans League

Zanele Sabela (COSATU National Spokesperson)

Mobile: 079 287 5788

Email: zaneles@cosatu.org.za