NUM demands fair wages and dignity as negotiations with Goldfields commence

The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) and United Association of South Africa (UASA) is currently engaged in intensive wage negotiations with Goldfields at the Indaba Hotel in Fourways. Following the company’s opening offer of a 3.2% increase presented, the unions remain firm in its pursuit of an agreement that reflects the true value of our members' labor and the economic realities they face.

The unions have entered these talks in good faith, with a clear mandate to secure fair compensation, improved working conditions, and long-term sustainability for all workers. Our demands are not merely numbers; they are a necessary response to the rising cost of living, increased technical responsibilities, and the persistent wage disparities within the mining sector.

The NUM’s core demands include:

•Wages: A 15% increase for Categories 4–8 (A4–B5) and a 13% increase for Miners, Artisans, and Officials (minimum R5,460).
•Housing Allowance: A demand of R8,500 for the first year, with wage percentage increases applied in subsequent years.
•Living-Out Allowance (LOA): A demand of R3,500 for the first year and with wage percentage increases applied in subsequent years.

"Our members are the primary drivers of Goldfields' profitability and operational continuity," says Ntsane Monaheng, NUM Chief Negotiator at Goldfields, . "We are approaching these negotiations with agility and determination. It is essential that management engages meaningfully with proposals that prioritize fairness and the retention of experienced personnel in a sector facing critical skills shortages."

The unions remain committed to a transparent and constructive process. However, we remind all stakeholders that we reserve all organizational rights as provided under the Labor Relations Act should good-faith bargaining fail to prevail. We expect a response from management that honors the dignity of theworkers who sustain this industry.

For more information, please contact:

Ntsane Monaheng, NUM Chief Negotiator at Goldfields, 082 096 9930
Nico Van Rooyen, Divisional Manager, 072 581 4343
Livhuwani Mammburu, NUM National Spokesperson, 083 809 3257