The national minimum wage has been increased to R27,58 per hour, from R25,42 per hour.
This marks an 8.5% increase – far ahead of current inflation levels.
In a government gazette published last week, Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi said the increase will be effective from 1 March 2024.
Vulnerable workers, such as domestic workers and farm workers, must receive remuneration at this prescribed level, whereas individuals employed under the expanded public works programme should be paid a minimum wage of R15 and R16 per hour.
Employers found to be remunerating below this minimum could face penalty fines.
Meanwhile, labour federations Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) and the South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) have issued statements welcoming the recent adjustment in the national minimum wage, asserting its potential to alleviate poverty and stimulate local economies.
