South Africa's largest trade union federation, COSATU, is staging nationwide protest action today, with marches planned in major cities across the country. In Cape Town, demonstrators were expected to march from Keizersgracht to the Civic Centre between 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM local time, with road closures anticipated in the city centre.
The action was formally notified through NEDLAC, the country's labour dialogue forum, and employers were urged to plan for disruptions throughout the day. The protests are tied to ongoing grievances over wages, working conditions and the rising cost of living.
COSATU remains one of the most powerful organized-labour voices in South African politics, and its national days of action have a long history of drawing large crowds and forcing government and business to the table.
Businesses in affected areas were advised to expect transport delays and to make contingency plans for staff unable to reach workplaces near march routes.
