The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) in Mpumalanga will host its annual May Day celebration on 1 May at Kabokweni Stadium in Mbombela (Nelspruit). This important day on the workers’ calendar will bring together workers, Alliance partners, community formations, and progressive forces to commemorate International Workers’ Day.
May Day remains a historic platform to celebrate the hard-won gains of workers while confronting the challenges that continue to undermine the dignity and livelihoods of the working class. This year’s celebration comes at a critical moment for South Africa’s economy and social fabric, where workers are bearing the brunt of rising inequality, unemployment, and economic hardship.
The 2026 May Day rally will focus on key issues affecting workers and communities, including:
- The rising cost of living: The increasing prices of food, electricity, transport, and other necessities are placing unbearable pressure on workers and their families. COSATU demands urgent government intervention to cushion the working class from the escalating cost of living crisis.
- The urgent implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI): COSATU reaffirms its unwavering support for universal access to quality healthcare. The Federation calls for the accelerated and transparent implementation of the NHI to ensure that all South Africans, particularly the working class and the poor, can access dignified healthcare services.
- The fight against austerity measures: Workers continue to suffer under budget cuts that weaken public services, threaten jobs, and undermine economic growth. COSATU will intensify its campaign against austerity and advocate for a developmental, worker-friendly economic approach.
- The fight against the closure of power stations: The Federation opposes the premature closure of power stations without viable alternatives that protect jobs and ensure energy security. A just transition must prioritise workers and affected communities.
- Addressing the scourge of illegal mining (zama zamas): COSATU calls for decisive action to combat illegal mining activities that threaten economic stability, worker safety, and community security, while also advocating for sustainable solutions for those driven into informal and unsafe work.
The May Day celebration will feature addresses from COSATU leadership, Alliance partners, and invited stakeholders. It will also serve as a platform to mobilise workers towards unity, solidarity, and collective action in defence of their rights.
COSATU Mpumalanga invites all workers, community members, and progressive organisations to join the May Day rally in large numbers as we reaffirm our commitment to building a just, equitable, and inclusive society.
Issued by COSATU Mpumalanga Provincial Office
Thabo Mokoena (Provincial Secretary)
Mobile: 073 750 2041