Latest News & Developments
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Cosatu downplays economic impact of Afrikaner immigration to the US
COSATU said the economic implications of Afrikaner immigration to the US must not be exaggerated.
Job losses loom as Saftu and Cosatu highlight South Africa's manufacturing crisis
Saftu and Cosatu raise alarms over job losses as South Africa's manufacturing sector faces a significant downturn, with production declining for five consecutive months and investment levels dropping.
Manufacturing in crisis: Saftu and Cosatu warn of job losses amid declining production
As South Africa's manufacturing sector faces a troubling decline, Saftu and Cosatu voice urgent concerns over job losses, following alarming statistics revealing a 0,8% drop in production.
NHI ruling 'does not pose any burden upon the presidency'
Following a significant court ruling, Cosatu and other unions express their unwavering support for the National Health Insurance Bill, asserting it as the best path towards universal healthcare in South Africa.
South Africa's Workers' Day: Uniting against unemployment and injustice
On Workers' Day, South African unions rally against alarming unemployment rates and proposed labour law changes that jeopardise workers' rights, calling for solidarity in the fight against exploitation.
COSATU warns legal challenges to VAT increase could lead to severe fiscal consequences for South Africa
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) has expressed concern over the Democratic Alliance (DA) and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) challenging the VAT increase in court, warning that such actions could destabilise South Africa's fiscal systems. COSATU's Parliamentary Coordinator, Matthew Parks, argues that legal challenge is inappropriate and may lead to a crisis.
Constitutional Court confirms that municipal workers can hold political office
The Constitutional Court has confirmed that municipal workers have the right to hold political office, highlighting the balance between political rights and performance in local governance.
Political tensions rise as Budget narrowly passes with VAT Hike, set to be challenged in court
The Government of National Unity faces its biggest test as the narrowly-passed National Budget with its controversial VAT increase sparks political tension. With the DA heading to court and the rand weakening in response, what does this mean for South Africa's economic stability?
Workers cannot afford for Parliament not to pass a progressive Budget - Cosatu
With Parliament facing unprecedented delays in passing a progressive Budget, South African workers are at risk. Discover why timely budget approval is essential for social grants and public services.
Concerns grow over South Africa's Budget consensus ahead of looming deadline
With the deadline for Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana's budget approaching, political tensions escalate as the ANC and DA clash over proposed VAT increases. Experts warn of severe consequences if consensus is not reached.
Cosatu calls for amendment to Budget, slams proposed VAT hike
Parliamentary finance committees met to discuss South Africa's economic policies, with COSATU strongly opposing the proposed VAT increase that they argue will harm working-class families already struggling with inflation and high unemployment.
Employers’ responsibilities during severe weather: A look at KwaZulu-Natal
As KwaZulu-Natal faces severe weather challenges, the responsibilities of employers towards their employees come into question. Trade unions and experts weigh in on the duty of care owed to workers during natural disasters.
US-SA tensions rise as unions defy Ramaphosa over Rasool welcome
The defiance highlights growing internal divisions over South Africa's diplomatic approach to US relations.
McDonald's SA probes customer assault on female employee in Kenilworth
An investigation is underway at McDonald’s South Africa following a viral video showing a customer assaulting an employee at the Kenilworth branch, prompting reactions from the public and officials.
Cosatu plans hero's welcome for expelled Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool
In a bold move escalating diplomatic tensions between South Africa and the US, Cosatu announces plans for a hero's welcome for Ambassador Rasool, while calling for reciprocal action against US diplomats. The labour federation's stance highlights growing strain in SA-US relations.
Revised budget proposals could reshape the future for South Africa's working class
Workers cannot afford a return to an austerity Budget that weakens public services and denies badly needed economic stimulus, nor can the working class survive further hardships.
Critical gaps in SA's new Merchant Shipping Amendment Bill - Cosatu
The Merchant Shipping Amendment Bill presents a crucial opportunity to address maritime workers' rights, but COSATU warns of concerning gaps in labour protection and procedural oversights. Here's what needs to change to ensure comprehensive protection for seafarers in South African waters.
Cosatu sounds alarm over AfriForum's actions and their economic impact on South Africa
Cosatu accuses AfriForum of spreading racism and misinformation, linking their actions to a R8 billion cut in US aid and potential job losses in South Africa. "
Conflicting union responses over potential pension contribution pause at GEPF
South African labour unions are deeply divided over a government proposal to temporarily suspend employer contributions to the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF). While Cosatu supports the plan to address a R60 billion budget shortfall, other unions warn of long-term consequences for public servants' retirement security
Numsa mourns the passing of its KZN chairperson
The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa pays tribute to Phakama Kheswa, a dedicated leader and advocate for workers’ rights, following his passing.
Alan Winde urged to prioritise education in his State of the Province Address
Cosatu, parties and civil society groups are expected to stage a protest outside the venue on Wednesday to protest against the Western Cape Education Department’s teacher cuts.
Cosatu calls for progressive Budget alternatives ahead of March 12 Parliament return
Cosatu welcomes Cabinet's decision to reconsider the 2% VAT hike while emphasising the need for a balanced budget that strengthens public services, stimulates economic growth, and protects the working class. The union federation outlines key priorities ahead of the March 12 Budget presentation.
FEDUSA and COSATU welcome budget postponement, call for equitable fiscal strategies
The Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) and Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) said that they welcome the government's decision to postpone Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana 2025 Budget speech to March.
How will Godongwana’s budget address the gap left by US funding cuts?
Godongwana will deliver his first budget of the Government of National Unity (GNU) and against the backdrop of US President Donald Trump signing an executive order that freezes funding from the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief.
Budget Speech 2025: Cosatu vows to reject VAT increase, warns it will push workers into debt
Pressure mounts on Finance minister Enoch Godongwana as trade unions warn against tax hikes on low income earners in the 2025 budget.