UASA

UASA UASA is a registered South African trade union. In these turbulent times and instability in the workplace, can you afford not to belong to a trade union?

Debt Rescue was built to help people find their way back to financial dignity. You're worth fighting for. Visit debtresc...
26/02/2026

Debt Rescue was built to help people find their way back to financial dignity. You're worth fighting for.

Visit debtrescue.co.za and take back your peace of mind.

Let us help you.

UASA Media Release: 25 February 2026Ekapa liquidation doubles the trauma of the five presumed dead miners’ loved ones St...
25/02/2026

UASA Media Release: 25 February 2026

Ekapa liquidation doubles the trauma of the five presumed dead miners’ loved ones

Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:

UASA expresses deep sadness and concern following the announcements by Ekapa Resources (Pty) Ltd and Ekapa Minerals (Pty) Ltd of their intention to apply for liquidation. This decision comes as the company continues to deal with the aftermath of the Du Toitspan Joint Shaft mudslide, where five workers remain missing.

Despite extensive rescue and recovery efforts at the 890-metre level, the missing miners are now presumed dead.

UASA acknowledges the severe operational and financial pressures cited by the company but is deeply saddened by the board’s decision to pursue liquidation while workers, families and the broader mining community are still coping with the aftermath of the accident.

This decision comes at a difficult time, as mine workers face emotional trauma and the immediate threat of job loss.

The liquidation announcement coincides with the tabling of the National Budget by the Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, which highlighted the country’s challenging economic outlook. Job losses continue at an alarming rate and high unemployment, combined with insufficient investment in sustainable job creation, poses a serious challenge for South Africa.

The potential job losses from this liquidation risk will deepen economic hardship in Kimberley and the surrounding areas.

UASA urges all relevant stakeholders, including government and industry partners, to prioritise worker protection during the liquidation process. This includes transparent engagement with organised labour, fair consultation, and safeguarding employee benefits and outstanding obligations.

UASA extends its deepest condolences to the families, colleagues and loved ones affected by this tragedy. The union stands in solidarity with all workers and communities impacted during this difficult time.

For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview,
contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.

UASA Media Release: 25 February 2026 National Budget provides meaningful relief for workers Image source: South African...
25/02/2026

UASA Media Release: 25 February 2026

National Budget provides meaningful relief for workers

Image source: South African Revenue Services (SARS) on X.

Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:

Amid ongoing economic challenges, high unemployment and rising living costs, today’s National Budget provides meaningful relief for workers, consumers and households across South Africa.

UASA welcomes the adjustments to key taxes, personal income tax brackets, and the withdrawal of previously proposed tax increases, including the R20 billion in additional taxes. These measures help protect workers’ incomes and purchasing power.

While these tax and fiscal changes provide relief, UASA stresses that fundamental economic renewal is urgently needed. South Africa’s economy remains under significant pressure. Projected growth of 1.6% in 2026, averaging 1.8% over the medium term and reaching 2% by 2028, is insufficient to reduce unemployment or significantly improve living standards.

UASA welcomes and strongly supports the government’s commitment to infrastructure investment exceeding R1 trillion over the medium term, directed to State Owned Entities, provinces, and municipalities. However, proposed cuts to public transport investment are concerning. Public transport is essential for millions of workers and remains a critical economic component.

The allocation of R292.8 billion to social grants, supporting over 26.5 million beneficiaries, is welcome. However, UASA believes true economic inclusion comes from job creation and a sustainable economy, not reliance on social grants. Minister Godongwana, our people need stable jobs and incomes that can sustain them.

UASA urges municipalities to make effective use of the R86.9 billion investments and deliver efficient services to the households that depend on them. We expect an end to the misuse of state funds and call for greater accountability from municipalities.

The additional R12.8 billion allocated to education and skills development is welcome. We hope this will encourage more learners to develop critical skills that support their entry into the job market.

The R21.3 billion allocated to health services to employ doctors and strengthen care is welcome. We cannot afford a struggling healthcare system while thousands of medical professionals remain unemployed. Their skills are essential for the well-being of our people.

UASA welcomes the R27.7 billion allocated to reform metro trading services, including water and electricity infrastructure. We support these reforms, especially as municipalities face significant infrastructure backlogs, such as the R64 billion water infrastructure deficit in Johannesburg. Reliable water, electricity, and transport systems are essential for economic growth and job creation.

South Africa urgently needs faster economic growth above 3% to reduce unemployment, increased investment in labour-intensive industries, stronger support for small businesses and industrial development and improved municipal capacity and infrastructure delivery.

Fiscal stability must now lead to real economic progress. Workers should not bear the burden of slow growth, rising living costs and structural economic weaknesses.
UASA will continue to closely monitor Budget implementation, advocating for policies that enhance labour engagement, support small business development and unlock the full economic potential of South Africa’s workforce.

For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview,
contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.

UASA Members Please Note -
25/02/2026

UASA Members Please Note -

UASA Media Release: 23 February 2026 2026 Budget must address real challenges workers face Statement by Abigail Moyo, sp...
23/02/2026

UASA Media Release: 23 February 2026

2026 Budget must address real challenges workers face

Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:

Consumers are tightening their budgets to cover basic household needs, while businesses face low growth, retrenchments and liquidations. South Africa’s economic outlook remains gloomy.
As we await the National Budget Speech on Wednesday, a key question arises: Will this budget address the real challenges faced by South African workers?
The Budget Speech must go beyond short-term measures and present a credible plan for job creation and long-term stability.

Without meaningful growth, unemployment will remain high. UASA expects the Minister to outline clear interventions to stimulate industrial expansion, support small and medium enterprises, protect existing jobs and create new employment opportunities.

High inflation continues to strain consumers and reduce workers’ disposable income. UASA urges Godongwana to expedite measures that protect vulnerable South Africans, including safeguarding social and relief grants, stabilising food and fuel costs, and providing tax relief where possible. Workers cannot be expected to shoulder the cost of fiscal consolidation alone.

State-owned enterprises remain critical to economic performance and service delivery. Investment should be linked to strong governance reforms and accountability to prevent further financial mismanagement.
Revitalising passenger rail is essential for economic participation and worker mobility.

UASA expects meaningful budget allocations to restore and maintain rail services. This investment will strengthen the transport sector, improve goods movement, and enhance service delivery.

The ongoing water crisis poses a serious risk to public health, industry, and agriculture. We call for urgent investment in water infrastructure maintenance, upgrades, and expansion. Municipal capacity must be strengthened to prevent service delivery failures.

Long-term economic growth depends on investment in education, vocational training, and skills development aligned with industry needs. UASA expects
the budget to increase funding for TVET institutions, apprenticeships, and workplace-based learning programmes.

UASA calls on Minister Enoch Godongwana to deliver a strategic Budget Speech that demonstrates fiscal responsibility and clearly outlines viable plans to stimulate growth, reduce unemployment, stabilise inflation and rebuild public confidence.

South Africa needs decisive action, policy certainty, and accountable implementation. Workers are seeking hope, stability, and a clear economic direction.

For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview, contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.

UASA Media Release: 20 February 2026 KZN intervention to save Tongaat Hulett will prevent collapse of sugar sector in th...
20/02/2026

UASA Media Release: 20 February 2026

KZN intervention to save Tongaat Hulett will prevent collapse of sugar sector in the province

Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
UASA welcomes the government’s plans to rescue Tongaat Hulett Sugar from liquidation after the company’s provisional application for liquidation last week, as announced by KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli.

The rescue efforts aim to protect 2,500 direct jobs and the livelihoods of thousands of small-scale sugar cane farmers who depend on the company. The 134-year-old company filed for liquidation after business rescue efforts, which began in October 2022, were unsuccessful.

While the matter is still under discussion by the Cabinet and other stakeholders, UASA remains hopeful that the government’s intervention will succeed.

However, government intervention at such a late stage is not ideal for job sustainability. We urge the government to prioritise proactive investment in job security. With appropriate investment and practical planning, we can prevent company failures and create the jobs the economy needs.

UASA reminds business owners and stakeholders of the importance of transparency, good governance and best practices in company management.

Had Tongaat Hulett not experienced significant accounting irregularities, financial misstatements and governance failures under previous management, which destroyed approximately R12 billion in shareholder value, the company would remain financially stable.

For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview, contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.

UASA stands in solidarity with the miners at Ekapa Mining, their families. We pray for their safe return and strength to...
20/02/2026

UASA stands in solidarity with the miners at Ekapa Mining, their families. We pray for their safe return and strength to their families.

20 February 2026 Employers: Building productivity and addressing chronic absenteeism at workEvery employee deserves time...
20/02/2026

20 February 2026

Employers: Building productivity and addressing chronic absenteeism at work

Every employee deserves time off to rest, recover and attend to personal responsibilities. However, when absenteeism becomes habitual, it can negatively affect workplace culture, productivity and long-term sustainability. At the same time, persistent absenteeism may signal deeper organisational challenges that require attention. Employers must be willing to reflect on workplace practices, policies and conditions to identify root causes and implement meaningful improvements that keep employees engaged and supported.

Absenteeism not only affects the organisation but also the individual employee. Repeated absence can undermine an employee’s performance, income stability and opportunities for career advancement. It places additional pressure on colleagues who rely on teamwork and shared accountability. For employers, the consequences include reduced productivity, strained morale and financial strain.

Studies indicate that approximately three percent of the workforce is absent on any given day, yet the true cost is often underestimated. Reduced productivity is one of the most immediate effects. When employees are frequently absent, workloads shift to others, deadlines are missed and service delivery or production targets may suffer.

The financial implications are equally significant. Employers may incur additional costs through overtime payments or the hiring of temporary staff to maintain operations. Research suggests that absenteeism can substantially increase overtime expenditure, placing avoidable pressure on company resources.

Low morale is another consequence. When employees perceive that accountability is unevenly applied, frustration and resentment can grow. Over time, this erodes teamwork and increases the risk of burnout. In certain sectors, absenteeism may even create safety risks, particularly where strict operational procedures require experienced personnel.

Addressing absenteeism requires shared responsibility. Employees must take their work seriously, recognising that consistent attendance and active contribution are fundamental to professional integrity and collective success. Employers, in turn, must cultivate environments where employees feel valued, treated fairly and supported.

A positive workplace culture is essential. This includes fairness, clear values and goals, effective leadership, psychological safety and a genuine sense of belonging. Employers should also prioritise employee wellbeing, including mental health support, recognising the clear link between wellbeing and productivity.

Competitive remuneration and fair benefits further demonstrate respect for employees’ contributions. When workers feel secure and appreciated, they are more likely to remain committed and engaged.

Absenteeism should not be viewed merely as misconduct nor solely as a management failure. It often reflects workplace dynamics that require constructive dialogue and balanced solutions. By promoting accountability alongside compassion, organisations can build resilient workplaces where employees are motivated to contribute meaningfully and employers are responsive to legitimate needs.

A stronger workplace is built on mutual respect, responsibility and consideration. When both employees and employers fulfil their roles with integrity, productivity improves, morale strengthens and the world of work becomes more sustainable for all.

Ref: www.lyrahealth.com www.uasa.org.za

Address

Constantia Ridge Office Park, Block B, 231 Panorama Drive, Constantia Kloof
Roodepoort
1709

Opening Hours

Monday 08:00 - 16:00
Tuesday 08:00 - 16:00
Wednesday 08:00 - 16:00
Thursday 08:00 - 16:00
Friday 08:00 - 16:00

Telephone

011 472 3600

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when UASA posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Practice

Send a message to UASA:

Shortcuts

Share

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn
Share on Pinterest Share on Reddit Share via Email
Share on WhatsApp Share on Instagram Share on Telegram