NUM challenges Afrimat’s anti-worker agenda in Matlosana region

MATLOSANA, NORTH WEST – The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) today released a statement condemning what it describes as a series of antiworker actions by Afrimat in the Matlosana Region. The union, which is the majority representative at the company, is pushing back against efforts to reverse long-standing employee benefits following Afrimat's acquisition of Lafarge in April 2024.

The NUM highlights several key points of contention:

• Stalled Wage Negotiations: Wage negotiations have been prolonged since March, with the company showing what the union calls "disdain" for the bargaining process.

• Medical Aid Rollback: Afrimat intends to scrap a comprehensive medical aid plan inherited from Lafarge, which had a 65% company contribution, and replace it with a limited medical insurance policy that imposes a flat R600 per member. This move is a significant reversal of workers' progressive gains.

• Maternity Leave Reduction: The company is also proposing to cut maternity leave from four months months to two months, a change the union finds unacceptable and a direct attack on female employees.

"Afrimat is trying to strip away the benefits our members have fought for and earned over many years," said Mpho Phakedi, NUM General Secretary. "These are not mere habits; these are calculated moves to undermine our members' well-being. The company's posture is anti-worker, and we are prepared to fight back."

NUM members are threatening to strike in the coming week if the company does not reverse its position. The union remains committed to protecting the rights and benefits of its members.

For further information, please contact:

Mpho Phakedi, NUM General Secretary, 082 882 3452
Mike Fafuli, NUM Production Pillar Head, 082 803 6419
Livhuwani Mammburu, NUM National Spokesperson, 083 809 3257

The National Union of Mineworkers
7 Rissik Street.
Cnr Frederick Johannesburg
Tel: 011 377 2111 Cell: 083 809 3257
Twitter: @Num_Media

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/NUM/10086002340216