Mashatile: Workers still face inequality and unemployment

African National Congress (ANC) Deputy President Paul Mashatile has emphasised that the struggle for a better working environment is far from over. Speaking at a Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) Workers’ Day rally held at Curries Fountain Sports Ground in Durban, Mashatile highlighted that South African workers continue to face pressing challenges such as youth unemployment, wage inequality, and skills shortages. 

Mashatile noted that youth unemployment currently stands at 59% and that the persistent wage gap between executives and workers underscores the need to intensify the fight for workers’ liberation. 

“The struggle is far from over as South African workers face multitudes of challenges, including high unemployment and the struggle to earn a decent wage, skills shortage, and issues related to equity. Poverty and inequality continue to define our society. We are still a long way from achieving the total emancipation of our people. We don’t have economic freedom as described by the Freedom Charter, which envisioned a South African economic system in which national wealth is shared by all—not just a privileged few.” 

ANC Deputy President, Cde Paul Mashatile delivered an address at the COSATU #MayDay2025 rally

📍Curries Fountain Sports Development Centre #ThePeoplesMovement pic.twitter.com/tIAkaqjmSf

— ANC – African National Congress (@MYANC) May 1, 2025

Thousands of COSATU members, clad in COSATU and ANC regalia, gathered at the Durban rally. Revolutionary songs echoed throughout the venue, as provincial and local leaders from both COSATU and the ANC joined Mashatile in addressing the crowd. 

Youth attendees at the rally expressed mixed views on the relevance and impact of Workers’ Day celebrations. 

“There is no need for some of us to celebrate Workers’ Day. This should be an event that encourages more employment, especially for young people like me. The government must hold workshops for youth. It’s also important to recognise workers like teachers, who are often neglected despite their role in building the economy.” 

“There is a need to celebrate this day. South Africa stands on the shoulders of its workers. Ignoring this day would be neglecting the historical gains that drive our economy today.” 

Workers Sibahle Sokhulu and Zodwa Sithole voiced concerns over rising retrenchments and precarious contract-based employment. 

“As workers, we are worried about retrenchment and working on a contract basis. Everyone in South Africa needs a job. I can’t plan for the future, I can’t buy a house—I can’t survive if I’m working on contract.” 

“Employers must stop retrenching workers. If they do, they should start by retrenching those who came last.” 

COSATU Deputy General Secretary Gerald Twala acknowledged that while organised labour has achieved significant victories since democracy, many workers are still excluded from its full benefits. 

“Youth unemployment remains stubbornly high in our country. While organised unions have won major victories, we also face very serious challenges—including the persistent wage gap between executives and workers, which undermines social justice and perpetuates inequality.” 

The South African Communist Party (SACP), South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO), and other alliance partners reaffirmed their commitment to work alongside the ANC in addressing the plight of workers and advancing the transformation agenda.