The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) in KwaZulu-Natal notes the Isolezwe article of 4 February 2026 in which His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini kaBhekuzulu is quoted stating that he will not allow any more mines in KwaZulu-Natal.
We note the King’s concerns, given the historical and ongoing destruction of land caused by some mining operations, non-compliance with environmental laws, and the failure of certain companies to meaningfully comply, advance beneficiation and community development. Although KZN’s mining sector is relatively small compared with other industries, it nonetheless plays an important role in sustaining economic activity and supporting jobs.
We understand and share the deep concern about the damage mining has caused to land, communities, and local ecosystems in parts of KwaZulu-Natal. These are legitimate issues that deserve serious attention. However, we are equally concerned about the possible impact of such a position, on jobs and economic stability. Mining directly employs around 10 888 workers in KwaZulu-Natal and contributes about 1.5% to the provincial GDP.
Provincial government data also shows that the broader-minerals and quarrying sector in KZN contributes under 2 % of the provincial Gross Value Added (GVA). There are more other beneficiaries through indirect employment and value chain.
Any sudden policy shift in this sector may deepen unemployment and poverty in a province already battling the economic effects of COVID-19, the July unrest and floods. At the same time, external shocks such as diminishing trade support from markets like the United States, including challenges related to AGOA have also adversely affected manufacturing and export-oriented jobs.
As COSATU and our National Union of Mine Workers (NUM), we have consistently engaged mining companies such as RBM and others, and called for government intervention whenever jobs were threatened, because workers cannot be expected to carry the burden of poor regulation and corporate greed.
We further note that King Zwelithini had a great interest in agriculture and agro-processing, which we support, but at the moment such initiatives must complement existing sectors that employ large numbers of people, and not lead to job losses.
As COSATU, we have a cordial and historical relationship with the Zulu Kingdom. During our 1973 Durban Strike Commemoration, we acknowledged the role played by King Zwelithini in representing some of the workers in Durban, at a time when workers did not have the right to join trade unions, a recognition that was formalized through a bilateral engagement between COSATU leadership and His Majesty King Misuzulu. This engagement helped to strengthen the bonds between labour and the Kingdom.
It is therefore not unreasonable to expect that meaningful engagement with organised labour on matters affecting our members, particularly jobs and economic sustainability should be possible and welcomed.
COSATU therefore urges His Majesty to urgently outline his full plan and proposed alternatives, and calls for engagement with labour and all stakeholders to ensure a balanced approach that protects both the land and the livelihoods of workers.
COSATU will always avail itself for engagement with the Kingdom to better understand the King’s plans and to work collaboratively towards balanced and shared outcomes that protect people, land, and economic futures.
Issued by COSATU KwaZulu Natal
For enquiries: Edwin Mkhize (Provincial Secretary)
082 399 7756 / 076 522 8839
edwin@cosatu.org.za