Taking COSATU Today Forward, 22 August 2025 #CosatuCC2025
Norman Mampane
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COSATU TODAY #Cosatu scheduled to convene its ordinary 8th Central Committee next month, September in Johannesburg #CosatuCC2025 #WorkerControl #SACTU70 #ClassStruggle “Build Working Class Unity for Economic Liberation towards Socialism” #Back2Basics #JoinCOSATUNow #ClassConsciousness |
Taking COSATU Today Forward
‘Whoever sides with the revolutionary people in deed as well as in word is a revolutionary in the full sense’-Maoo
Our side of the story
22 August 2025
“Build Working Class Unity for Economic Liberation towards Socialism”
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Contents
- Workers Parliament: Back to Basics!
- DENOSA has a vacancy of Coordinator International Relations at the Head Office in Pretoria
- DENOSA has a vacancy of a Manager Communications
- NUM and JB Marks Education Trust Fund to honour 104 graduates at the Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg
- #NEDLAC scheduled to convene its 5th Annual Summit on the 5th of September 2025 under the Theme: "Advancing Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability in the Economy and the Labour Market
- Media Alert: National Minimum Wage (NMW) Commission invites written representations for consideration to 2026 wage adjustment.
- South Africa
- NUM urges Glencore and Samancor to halt job cuts and engage constructively
- International-Workers’ Solidarity!
- Southern Africa: textile workers call for a Just Transition that safeguards jobs
Workers’ Parliament-Back2Basics
DENOSA has a vacancy of Coordinator International Relations at the Head Office in Pretoria
Re-Advertisement
Date of Issue: 11 August 2025
Closing Date: 5th September 2025
Position Status:
Permanent Reporting Line:
Remuneration and Benefits: The successful applicant’s remuneration will be aligned with DENOSA's remuneration and benefits structure. Annual total cost to company is R646 937.86, including benefits
Job Purpose:
The Coordinator International Relations is responsible for fostering and maintaining strategic partnerships with international stakeholders, institutions and organisations. This role plays a key part in enhancing the institution's global profile through effective communication, diplomatic engagement and collaborative initiatives. Develops and sustains marketing strategies aligned with DENOSA's objectives by building relationships with relevant bodies, such as other trade unions and COSATU. The coordinator supports international projects, manages cross-border communications and ensures that all external engagements are consistent with the organisation's strategic goals and cultural values in collaboration with internal departments. The role contributes to marketing campaigns, organizational international events and the development of global outreach strategies.
Inherent Job Requirements
- Matric/Grade 12 plus a bachelor’s degree in international relations are required
- 3 years relevant experience in international relations within the labour movement will be considered an added advantage
- A valid light-duty driver's license
- A strong background in working within multinational environment, non-profit/NGO sectors or government departments
- Proven experience in engaging with labour unions and international organisations
Responsibilities
1. International Stakeholder Engagement
- Establish and sustain partnerships with foreign institutions, embassies, international organisations and global allies
- Manage international collaborations, exchange programmes, MOUs and joint ventures
- Ensure diplomatic protocol and cultural appropriateness in all international interactions
2. Strategic Marketing and Communication
- Develop and implement marketing strategies to improve global and local visibility of DENOSA
- Create and manage marketing campaigns across digital, print and media platforms
- Ensure all marketing content aligns with the organisation's international and local brand and communication standards
3. International Event Coordination
- Develop and implement marketing strategies to improve global and local visibility of DENOSA
- Create and manage marketing campaigns across digital, print and media platforms
- Ensure all marketing content aligns with the organisation's international and local brand and communication standards
4. Public Relations and Media Liaison
- Serve as a liaison for international media inquiries and public relations opportunities
- Draft and distribute press releases, newsletters, speeches and promotional materials
- Monitor international media coverage and manage reputation on global platforms
5. Research and Intelligence Gathering
- Monitor international trends, policies, funding opportunities and geopolitical developments relevant to the organisation
- Provide strategic briefings and background reports to guide leadership decisions Benchmark against similar global organisations and recommend best practices
6. Brand Management and Digital Outreach
- Ensure brand consistency across all international marketing and communication channels
- Manage social media and website content geared towards international audiences
- Track analysis and adjust digital strategies to optimise reach and engagement
7. Reporting and Compliance
- Prepare regular reports on international activities and outcomes
- Ensure compliance with international communication standards, data privacy laws and partnership agreements
- Maintain up-to-date documentation for audits, funders or international reviews
8. Budget Management and Resource Coordination
- Assist in budgeting and allocation for international marketing projects and travel
- Source and coordinate vendors, designers, translators and event service providers
- Ensure value for money and effective use of allocated resources
- Identify and apply for funding opportunities, grants and sponsorships to support international and local programs
Written Applications to:
The General Secretary
DENOSA Head Office
P.O.Box 1280
Pretoria
0001
All interested applicants who meet the minimum requirements may submit a concise CV, certified qualifications and Driver's licence [All copies must be scanned; pictures will not be accepted) and application letter with the subject line of your application stating the name of the position which you are applying for.
DENOSA is committed to the principles of Employment Equity and to fostering a inclusive, diverse and representative workforce. Preference will be given to suitably qualified candidates from designated groups in accordance with our Employment Equity Plan and relevant legislation.
Communication will be restricted to shortlisted candidates only. If you have not been contacted within two (2) months of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
The organisation reserves the right not to make an appointment.
Enquiries may be directed to the Human Resource Manager at: 012 343 2315 Applications to be directed to jo...@denosa.org.za
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DENOSA has a vacancy of a Manager Communications
Re-Advertisement
Date of Issue: 11th August 2025
Closing date: 5th September 2025
Position Status: 5-year renewable fixed term contract based on performance
Remuneration and Benefits: The successful applicant's remuneration will align with DENOSA's remuneration and benefits structure. The annual total cost to company is R712, 356.20, including benefits.
Job Purpose: The communications Manager will position DENOSA as a leading progressive organisation within South Africa's health sector and the global nursing community. This involves fostering robust international relationships, driving strategic communications and aligning messaging with the organisation's mission. The role includes leading the Communications Department, producing content for both external and internal communications, managing media relations and supporting programme initiatives.
Inherent Job Requirements:
- Matric/Grade 12, plus a Bachelor's degree (NQF 7) in Media Studies/Journalism/Public Relations/Communications
- 5 years' relevant experience of which 3 years must be at a management level as a prerequisite
- Light-duty driver's license
- Strong writing, editing and strategic communication skills Proven ability to manage media relations and digital communication channels
- Demonstrate experience working in a unionised or non-profit environment is advantageous
Responsibilities:
1. Strategic Communication and Project Management
- Manage communications staff, consultants and all related work to ensure materials have consistent messaging and branding.
- Work closely with the Secretariat and marketing teams, including developing communication strategies and messaging for DENOSA events.
- Collaborate with Provincial Secretaries, management and staff to develop and implement strategic communication plans and compelling messages.
- Facilitate monthly programme communication meetings to review current and upcoming communication needs and priorities.
- Create content to support digital marketing and outreach, including website updates, email marketing, internal communication, social media and outreach.
2. Pres/Media Relations
- Seek proactive opportunities to communicate DENOSA's work at local, provincial and national levels, including developing and managing media relationships.
- Write and edit press releases and Op-Eds.
- Develop, edit and publish a DENOSA Nursing Update.
- Act as the primary contact for the media, manage relationships and direct enquiries to the relevant staff.
3. Digital Marketing and Content Creation
- Oversee the development and management of DENOSA's digital communication channels, including websites and social media platforms
- Meet with staff to prepare for interviews, statements, press conferences and other relevant speaking engagements as needed
- Work closely with all DENOSA stakeholders, including creating communication materials related to advocacy, media press strategy and releases
- Write and edit newsletter messages, blog posts, articles, direct emails, social media content and other materials as required
- Manage all external communication deliverables, including newsletters, emails and web content and ensure the quality of all communication materials.
- Plan the editorial calendar, strategise and diversify content based on key priorities, emerging developments, ongoing initiatives and organisational goals.
- Provide writing and speaking guidance and training for staff as needed.
4. People Management
- Lead and mentor the communication team to foster a high-performing and collaborative work environment
- Facilitate professional development opportunities and ensure alignment with organisational goals
- Conduct performance reviews and address any HR-related matters within the department
5. Financial Management
- Manage the communication budget, ensuring effective allocation of resources
- Oversee procurement processes related to communication projects and activities
- Prepare budget reports and ensure alignment with financial policies and procedures
Written Applications to:
The General Secretary
DENOSA Head Office
P.O.Box 1280
Pretoria
0001
All interested applicants who meet the minimum requirements may submit a concise CV, certified qualifications and Driver's licence [All copies must be scanned; pictures will not be accepted) and application letter with the subject line of your application stating the name of the position which you are applying for.
DENOSA is committed to the principles of Employment Equity and to fostering a inclusive, diverse and representative workforce. Preference will be given to suitably qualified candidates from designated groups in accordance with our Employment Equity Plan and relevant legislation.
Communication will be restricted to shortlisted candidates only. If you have not been contacted within two (2) months of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
The organisation reserves the right not to make an appointment.
Enquiries may be directed to the Human Resource Manager at: 012 343 2315 Applications to be directed to jo...@denosa.org.za
____________________
NUM and JB Marks Education Trust Fund to honour 104 graduates at the Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg
Bongani Dlamini, Acting JB Marks Education Trust Fund Principal Officer & Livhuwani Mammburu, NUM National Spokesperson, 21 AUGUST 2025
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM), together with the JB Marks Education Trust Fund, will once again honour 104 graduates at its prestigious 14th Annual JB Marks Graduates Awards Ceremony, taking place on Friday, 22nd August 2025, at the Birchwood Hotel & OR Tambo Conference Centre, Serengeti Lapa, from 18h00 to 22h00.
The JB Marks Education Trust Fund was founded in 1997 by the NUM and named after its first president of the African Miners Union JB Marks. The Trust is also celebrating its 28th anniversary and has so far spent R700 million in funding bursaries for its members and dependents. Over the past two decades, JB Marks Education Trust Fund has provided bursaries for members of the NUM and their families.
This prestigious event will honour 104 graduates from the 2024 academic year, celebrating their achievements and the transformative impact of education. We are excited to share that invitations have been thoughtfully extended to a select group of 300 guests, including graduates, their families, dignitaries, and stakeholders from various sectors.
For this year’s graduation ceremony, the main speaker is Dr Alex Mashilo, who holds an MA in Labour Policy and Globalisation (2010) and a PhD (2019) from the University of the Witwatersrand (WITS), Johannesburg. His PhD study focused on economic and social upgrading in global production networks and the automotive manufacturing industry as the empirical case. Mashilo’s research interests are based on his MA and PhD studies and include economic and social upgrading, global production networks and value chains, changes in the labour process and production technology, their implications for work, workers, and their responses. He is currently a visiting researcher at the Southern Centre for Inequality Studies at WITS
Guests are invited to arrive at 17h00 for registration, ahead of an evening filled with inspiration, recognition, and celebration.
The JB Marks Education Trust Fund, established by the National Union of Mineworkers, continues to empower the children of mineworkers, energy, construction, and metal workers through bursaries and academic support, fostering excellence and opportunity.
Educating and empowering young Southern Africans is the centrepiece of the NUM strategy meant to break the yoke of the triple evils of poverty, unemployment, and inequality.
These bursaries are an effort of educating and empowering the dependents of NUM members. The education of an individual is by definition the education of a society.
The NUM, through the JB Marks Education Trust Fund, will continue to educate its members and their dependents.
This ceremony is more than a celebration—it’s a testament to the resilience and brilliance of our graduates, and the enduring commitment of the JB Marks Education Trust Fund to uplift communities through education.
The NUM is inviting members of the media to attend and report.
_____________________
#NEDLAC scheduled to convene its 5th Annual Summit on the 5th of September 2025 under the Theme: "Advancing Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability in the Economy and the Labour Market
#SocialDialogue #ClassStruggle
_____________________
Media Alert: National Minimum Wage (NMW) Commission invites written representations for consideration to 2026 wage adjustment.
The National Minimum Wage (NMW) Commission is inviting all interested parties or stakeholders to make written submission for possible adjustments to the NMW for 2026.
The NMW Commission said it will publish its annual report and recommendations concerning possible adjustment to the National Minimum Wage to the Minister of Employment and Labour later in 2025, in accordance with Section 6(2) of the NMW Act, No. 9 of 2018.
NMW Chairperson Imraan Valodia encourages interested parties to have their say in the possible adjustment.
The National Minimum Wage is the lowest remuneration rate that employers are obligated and legally permitted to pay their employees for each ordinary hour worked. It is illegal for employers to pay their employees less than the minimum threshold. The NMW was first introduced for implementation in South Africa in 2019.
The minimum wage is currently fixed at R28,79 for each ordinary hour worked. The current rate was announced in February 2025 by Minister of the Department of Employment and Labour, Ms. Nomakhosazana Meth.
The Commission is responsible for annually reviewing and recommending adjustments to the national minimum wage. It also investigates and reports annually to the Minister on the impact of the national minimum wage on the economy, collective bargaining, and income differentials, making this information available to the public.
Representations should reach the directorate: Employment Standards, Department of Employment and Labour, Private Bag X117, Pretoria, 0001 or be sent to nmwr...@labour.gov.za by 18 September 2025.
In addition to making representations on NMW the Commission is appealing to interested parties to complete a survey questionnaire on the link: https://forms.office.com/r/jXFtcZag90?origin=1prLink and the link can also be accessed on the Department of Employment and Labour’s website and social media pages.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Teboho Thejane
Departmental Spokesperson
082 697 0694/ teboho....@labour.gov.za
NUM urges Glencore and Samancor to halt job cuts and engage constructively
Lefty Mashego, NUM Chief Negotiator, 21 August 2025
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) expresses its deep concern regarding the recent announcement of potential retrenchments by Glencore and Samancor at their South African ferrochrome operations. These proposed job cuts are attributed to economic pressures, notably high electricity tariffs and a decline in ferrochrome prices.
The NUM finds this action to be premature and disingenuous. The Union, along with government and key stakeholders, including Eskom, is currently in active negotiations to secure a viable solution to the electricity cost challenges. The threat of retrenchment appears to be a coercive tactic designed to gain an advantage in these ongoing talks.
"We have made it clear that we will not tolerate our members being used as bargaining tools," stated Lefty Mashego, NUM Chief Negotiator. "We demand that Glencore and Samancor cease using the threat of job losses as leverage. All stakeholders must focus on finding a collaborative and sustainable solution for the industry."
Furthermore, the NUM urges these companies to reconsider their commitment to South Africa. Should they decide they are no longer able to operate, we call on them to surrender their mining and operating licenses. The jobs at the ten smelters—including Glencore’s Boshoek, Wonderkop, and Lion facilities, and Samancor’s Ferrometals, Middelburg Ferrochrome, Tubatse Ferrochrome, Tubatse Alloys, Dikwena, and TC Smelter—are vital to the economic stability of the communities that depend on them. The NUM is resolute in its stance to protect the livelihoods of its members and the broader economy.
International-Solidarity
Southern Africa: textile workers call for a Just Transition that safeguards jobs
21 August, 2025
Textile, garment, shoe and leather (TGSL) workers in Eswatini and South Africa are calling for a Just Transition from carbon-intensive industries to low-carbon renewable energy economies that protects jobs and ensures economic equity.
This common vision emerged at a workshop in Durban, South Africa, on 14–15 August, where 34 union leaders, officials and shop
stewards from IndustriALL affiliates, the Amalgamated Trade Unions of Swaziland (ATUSWA) and the Southern African Clothing and Textile Workers’ Union (SACTWU) came together to chart a path towards a fair and sustainable future.
The discussions centered on embedding a development-oriented approach within the Just Transition framework for the TGSL sector. Participants advocated shifting from the linear take-make-dispose model to a circular economy emphasizing resource efficiency, waste
reduction and sustainable production. Recycling and upcycling, for instance, were highlighted as strategies to curb environmental pollution, conserve water and energy and generate employment.
While acknowledging the productivity gains from new technologies, unions emphasized that automation should augment rather than displace workers. To support this, they called for financing to fund upskilling and reskilling programs to equip workers for the transition.
Additionally, mandatory human rights due diligence across TGSL value chains was deemed essential to hold global brands and
multinational corporations accountable and safeguard workers’ rights amid the shift to greener economies aligned with climate goals.
Given the sector’s female-dominated workforce, unions stressed the need for gender-inclusive policies addressing workplace gender-based violence and harassment, the gender pay gap and access to childcare, alongside the adoption of living wages to improve livelihoods.
Regional integration was identified as critical to bolstering intra-African trade, particularly under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), in the face of external pressures such as the 30 per cent tariffs imposed by the United States on South African
garment exports. Enhanced industrialization, participants argued, could expand the TGSL sector’s manufacturing capacity, creating jobs to address the region’s acute unemployment, poverty and inequality. Statistics South Africa reports an expanded unemployment
rate, including discouraged job seekers, of 43.1 per cent.
SACTWU has integrated sustainability into its Just Transition strategy, collaborating with the South African government’s National Cleaner Production Centre and engaging the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to finance solar panel installations in factories.
The union also participates in the Southern African SOLTRAIN initiative, which promotes solar thermal systems across the Southern African Development Community (SADC), including solar panels and solar-powered boilermakers in South African factories.
ATUSWA national organizer, Bongani Ndzinisa, emphasized:
“In Eswatini’s Just Transition, we stand firm on our demands for trade union rights and freedom of association to be upheld, ensuring workers’ voices are heard and respected.”
SACTWU deputy general secretary, Membinkosi Vilina, added:
“As a union, we champion worker ownership of renewable energy assets, ensuring that the wealth generated by new production methods in the textile and garment industries is shared and green jobs created.”
IndustriALL Sub-Saharan Africa regional secretary, Paule-France Ndessomin, underscored:
“As we navigate the just transition in Sub-Saharan Africa’s textile and garment industries, we must confront the broader impact of emerging technologies like automation and artificial intelligence on the future of work, while fiercely protecting decent working conditions.”
______________________________
Norman Mampane (Shopsteward Editor)
Congress of South African Trade Unions
110 Jorissen Cnr Simmonds Street, Braamfontein, 2017
P.O.Box 1019, Johannesburg, 2000, South Africa
Tel: +27 11 339-4911 Direct line: 010 219-1348