NUM's new leadership ready to confront worker challenges and grow union strength

The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) is proud to announce the successful conclusion of its 18th National Elective Congress, held from June 24th to 26th, 2025, at the Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre in Boksburg. Under the powerful theme, "The Epoch for the Dictatorship of the Proletariat, Now or Never,” the Congress solidified the union's commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of its members.

The three-day event was a crucial forum for robust debate on the significant challenges facing workers across South Africa, alongside a critical examination of the nation's political and economic landscape. The NUM firmly believes that the ongoing struggle for workers' rights is inextricably linked to the broader struggle for justice and prosperity within all communities.

The Congress culminated in the election of a dynamic new leadership team:

• President: Phillip Vilakazi
• Deputy President: Olehile Kgware
• General Secretary: Mpho Phakedi
• Deputy General Secretary: Phillip Mankge
• Treasurer General: Hellen Diatile
• National Chairperson of Education: Muzikayise Zakwe
• National Secretary of Education: Lefty Mashego
• National Chairperson of Health and Safety: Duncan Luvuno
• National Secretary of Health and Safety: Masibulele Naki

The NUM acknowledges the severe turbulence impacting the sectors in which it organizes, particularly the mining sector, which continues to face massive job losses. It is infuriating to witness companies practicing questionable processes, often failing to adhere to regulations governing retrenchments, leading to devastating repercussions for workers and their families. The new leadership is acutely aware of these challenges and prepared to champion the cause of its members.

In his inspiring closing remarks, newly elected President Phillip Vilakazi outlined a clear vision for the union's future. He declared that the first 100 days of the collective leadership will be pivotal, with a strong commitment to directly engage with members. "Our target is to bring back this mighty NUM to its glorious position. We want to increase our membership to at least be above the two hundred thousand mark. Our first hundred days in office will be very much busy,” President Vilakazi affirmed, pledging that the new leaders will work tirelessly to visit all NUM branches across the eleven regions to ensure better and more solid service delivery to members.

This newly elected leadership is poised to reinvigorate the NUM, strengthen its advocacy, and fiercely protect the interests of South African workers.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Mpho Phakedi, NUM General Secretary, 082 882 3452

Livhuwani Mammburu, NUM National Spokesperson, 083 809 3257

Luphert Chilwane, NUM Media Officer, 083 809 3255

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