The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) in Mpumalanga extends its deepest solidarity and compassion to the communities of Nkomazi affected by the recent floods that have caused widespread destruction, displacement, and suffering.

We are deeply concerned about the loss of homes, damage to infrastructure, disruption of livelihoods, and the trauma experienced by working-class families, the elderly, children, and vulnerable members of our society. These floods have once again exposed the harsh realities faced by our communities in times of natural disasters.

COSATU Mpumalanga calls on all spheres of government to act with urgency and coordination to ensure that affected communities receive adequate, dignified, and quality support. This includes the provision of safe shelter, food parcels, clean water, healthcare services, sanitation, and the speedy restoration of damaged infrastructure such as roads, schools, clinics, and electricity.

We further call on business, organised labour, faith-based organisations, NGOs, and broader civil society to unite in a spirit of social solidarity by mobilising resources and relief efforts to support the victims of this disaster. The magnitude of the devastation requires a collective response that puts people before profit.

Importantly, COSATU Mpumalanga urges government departments and employers to exercise compassion and flexibility during this difficult period. Workers who are unable to report for duty due to flooding, displacement, damaged transport routes, or unsafe conditions must not be penalised, disciplined, or have their wages unfairly deducted. Employers are called upon to apply progressive labour practices, including special leave arrangements and remote work where possible, in line with the principles of decent work and human dignity.

As COSATU Mpumalanga, we reaffirm our commitment to stand with the working class and affected communities of Nkomazi. We will continue to engage relevant authorities and stakeholders to ensure that relief efforts are effective, transparent, and reach those most in need.

Our thoughts are with all families impacted by this disaster. We encourage communities to remain united and vigilant, and we stand ready to play our role in rebuilding lives and restoring hope.

Issued by:
COSATU Mpumalanga
Thabo Mokoena (Provincial Secretary)

Mobile: 073 750 2041