COSATU MPUMALANGA TO INTENSIFY THE FIGHT AGAINST THE HIGH COST OF LIVING THROUGH PROVINCIAL PICKETS IN NKOMAZI AND GERT SIBANDE

The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) in Mpumalanga will continue its provincial Cost of Living Campaign through two coordinated pickets taking place on Friday, 19 June 2026, at 10h00, in solidarity with our affiliated unions and workers who continue to face exploitation, deteriorating working conditions and growing economic hardship.

These activities form part of COSATU’s ongoing campaign to defend workers’ rights, demand decent working conditions and intensify the fight against the rising cost of living that continues to place unbearable pressure on working-class families.

1      NKOMAZI PICKET IN SUPPORT OF SACCAWU

The first picket will take place at Matsamo Mall in Nkomazi in support of the South African Commercial, Catering and Allied Workers Union (SACCAWU).

The picket will raise the following critical demands:

  • Strict compliance with occupational health and safety standards in workplaces.
  • Respect for working hours and the Basic Conditions of Employment.
  • Decent treatment and dignity for retail workers.
  • A united campaign against the escalating cost of living, which continues to erode workers’ wages and living standards.

COSATU believes that workers should never be forced to choose between earning a living and working in unsafe or exploitative conditions. Employers must comply with labour legislation and ensure that workers’ rights are always protected.

GERT SIBANDE PICKET IN SUPPORT OF CEPPWAWU

The second picket will take place at Sjonajona Plantation, Elukwatini (Sappi Forestry) in the Gert Sibande District in support of the Chemical, Energy, Paper, Printing, Wood and Allied Workers’ Union (CEPPWAWU).

The picket seeks to demand:

  • The immediate reinstatement of more than 50 workers whose contracts have been unfairly terminated.
  • Job security and protection against arbitrary termination of employment.
  • Respect for workers’ rights and fair labour practices.

COSATU strongly condemns the loss of jobs that continues to deepen poverty and unemployment in our communities. Every job lost represents a family deprived of income and dignity. We therefore stand firmly with the affected workers and call on all relevant stakeholders to engage urgently in finding a just and lasting solution.

CALL FOR SOLIDARITY

COSATU Mpumalanga calls on workers, community members, progressive organisations and all those committed to social justice to join these pickets in solidarity with the affected workers.

The struggle against the high cost of living cannot be separated from the struggle for decent work, safe workplaces, job security and respect for workers’ rights. Together, we will continue to defend the interests of the working class and demand an economy that serves the people rather than profits.

Issued by COSATU Mpumalanga 

Thabo Mokoena (Provincial Secretary)

For enquiries: 073 750 2041