COSATU leads nationwide protests for labor rights in South Africa

The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) held nationwide demonstrations to observe the International Day for Decent Work. The labor federation issued warnings regarding the impact of the artificial intelligence revolution, stating that businesses must prioritize human capital to ensure workers do not become casualties of rapid technological shifts.

In the Eastern Cape, COSATU and its affiliates, including SACCAWU, organized marches in Mthatha. Protesters targeted major retailers such as Boxer Superstore, Spars (RNE Holdings), and Shoprite Checkers to demand better working conditions, job security, and an end to unfair labor practices.

Broadly, the federation is calling for stronger protections for collective bargaining in both the public and private sectors to combat rising retrenchments, increasing living costs, and the casualization of labor.