by AKANI CHAUKE
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – THE National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) has strongly condemned the recent attacks, intimidation and violence directed at African migrants in South Africa, warning that xenophobic actions threaten social cohesion and undermine the spirit of African solidarity.
NUM General Secretary, Mpho Phakedi, expressed concern over incidents involving damage to property, assaults and threats against foreign nationals living and working in the country.
He said while citizens have a constitutional right to protest and voice their grievances, acts of violence and intimidation against vulnerable communities could not be justified.
“Peaceful protest must never be used as a cover for lawlessness or the targeting of vulnerable communities,” Phakedi said.
He highlighted NUM’s long history of working alongside migrant labourers, noting that many of its founding leaders came from neighbouring African countries.
Phakedi said migrant workers from Lesotho, Mozambique, Eswatini, Botswana and Namibia continue to play a significant role in the mining sector and within the NUM itself.
Phakedi also stressed its close ties with trade unions across the continent, saying African workers share a common struggle against colonialism, apartheid and exploitation.
At the same time, the NUM called on the Government to urgently address concerns around border management, unemployment, crime and poor service delivery, which it said were fuelling frustration among communities.
“The Government has a duty to respond to these concerns with the urgency and seriousness they deserve through decisive policy interventions and effective implementation,” Phakedi said.
The NUM urged authorities to strengthen border controls, enforce immigration laws fairly and prioritise job creation and crime-fighting measures.
It also appealed to workers, communities and political organisations to reject xenophobia and promote peaceful coexistence, tolerance and unity in workplaces and communities across South Africa.
– CAJ News