The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) Gauteng welcomes the decision by the City of Tshwane to implement the long-overdue 3.5 % salary increase for municipal workers, a matter that workers and their unions have pursued for years.

For too long, municipal workers who keep our cities functioning through refuse removal, water and sanitation services to parks and infrastructure maintenance have waited for remuneration that reflects their vital contribution to our communities. We applaud the South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) for its steadfast commitment to ensuring that the wage agreement concluded in 2021 is honoured in full and that more than 21 000 employees will finally see the increase and backpay they were rightfully owed.

COSATU Gauteng recognises that this victory did not come easily. It was only achieved through principled collective action and unrelenting pressure on both labour and municipal leadership to honour collective bargaining agreements and deliver on commitments made at the bargaining table. We also note that the burden for delays lies squarely with the previous administration that failed to implement the agreed increase in a timely manner.

We emphasise that this outcome reflects not only a monetary adjustment but a reaffirmation of labour rights and the dignity of municipal workers across Tshwane. COSATU Gauteng stands in solidarity with SAMWU and all organised labour in calling for fair, just and timely implementation of wage agreements across all sectors of the public service.

As we move forward, COSATU Gauteng will continue to support efforts to strengthen collective bargaining, protect worker rights, and ensure that municipal employees receive the respect and remuneration they deserve — not as a concession, but as a fundamental right.

Issued by COSATU Gauteng

Provincial Chairperson: Vusi Amos Monyela, 079 493 5002

Provincial Secretary: Louisah Modikwe, 082 297 2659