Members of the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) embarked on a national strike on Tuesday, 5 October, demanding higher wages. Most parts of the Danskraal Industrial area and the Pieters area were closed as picketing took place by union members and workers from local factories.
“We will be here, no matter how long it takes,” said one of the picketers who had gathered on the corner of Helpmekaar and Port Natal roads, blocking off the road by burning debris. “We are peacefully picketing here and will be here every day until our demands are met.” Union members didn’t report for duty in five of the country’s nine provinces and it is expected that over 300 000 workers will be supporting the strike. NUMSA spokesperson, Phakamile Hlubi-Majola, was reported to have said that they are demanding an 8% increase across the board for the first year, and CPI + 2% improvement factor for the second and third year. If CPI + 2% falls below 6%, employers must offer 6% or re-open negotiations. NUMSA called upon all workers to come out and join the strike to demand a meaningful increase. Police officers and Public Safety officials kept a close eye on the group of over 50 people who had been picketing and armed with knoberries as they sang. One picketer shouted: “We will close off these routes to completely stop supply going in and out of the factories.” At the time of going to press, union members were still in meetings about the higher wage negotiations.
