The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) has embarked on a strike at Ekapa Mine in Kimberley. The mine was previously owned by mining giant De Beers before they pulled out of the Northern Cape.
Workers are demanding an increase in wages, housing allowances and an increase in medical aid.
Meanwhile, Ekapa Mine says they cannot afford the demands tabled by workers.
Numsa spokesperson, Phakamile Hlubi-Majola says, “We demand a 17% wage increase and a 1 year agreement. We demand an entry level salary of R17 500 for all workers, housing allowance of R2 850 per month. We demand medical aid to increase to R2 650. The employer has responded with a proposal for a three year wage deal.”
“They are offering [an] offer of 6.5% across the board for each year of the agreement. Ekapa has pleaded poverty and claims they cannot afford our demands. However, they gave a 17% increase to workers who fall into a category called C band.”
