The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) is deeply saddened by the passing of Comrade Joseph Muzi Nkosi, a veteran of the labour and democratic struggles and former 1st Deputy President of COSATU and the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM).

Born and raised in Madadeni Township outside Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, Comrade Nkosi became politically active as a student at Hlalanathi High School. After five years of struggling to find a job, he studied Administration via correspondence at the University of South Africa. On completing, he joined Kilbarchan Mine and later transferred to Optimum Colliery in Middelburg in 1986.

Nkosi became a prominent leader in the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM), playing a leading role during the historic 1987 miners’ strike as Activities Coordinator. He subsequently served as a NUM Shaft Steward, National Chairperson of its Education Committee and a member of the NUM National Executive Committee.

Comrade Joseph was active in the United Democratic Front and COSATU structures, serving as Chairperson of the COSATU Middelburg Local and later Vice Chairperson and Chairperson of the COSATU Highveld Region.

Following the unbanning of political organisations in 1990, he became active in the ANC and played a leading role in establishing an SACP branch at Pullenshope. He later served as Chairperson of the SACP in Mpumalanga from 1992 to 1996.

His commitment to COSATU remained unwavering. Following the resignation of his predecessor, the COSATU Central Executive Committee unanimously elected Comrade Nkosi as Acting 1st Deputy President.

Comrade Joseph later served his country as a diplomat. In April 2018, he presented his letters to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and served as South Africa’s Ambassador to Venezuela until 30 March 2022, when he was reassigned to Chad.

Throughout his life, Comrade Joseph remained committed to the struggle for workers’ rights, democracy, social justice and international solidarity. His journey from the mines to senior leadership in the trade union movement, the democratic movement and diplomatic service reflected a life dedicated to serving the people.

COSATU extends its deepest condolences to the Nkosi family, his friends and comrades in NUM, the ANC, SACP, COSATU and the broader progressive movement.

May his revolutionary contribution never be forgotten.

Issued by COSATU

Zanele Sabela (COSATU Spokesperson)

Mobile: 079 287 5788 / 077 600 6639

Email: zaneles@cosatu.org.za