National Union of Mineworker's Drive for Change in the Construction Industry, empowering workers

For too long, construction workers in South Africa have laboured under precarious conditions-without formal contracts, payslips, access to Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) benefits, or even proper housing. Many moved from one short-term job to another on hazardous sites, often in silence, without recourse or representation. Their daily reality was not just hard work, but a constant struggle for survival in a sector that left them invisible.

In response to these long-standing challenges, the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) is renewing effort to reach construction workers where they are: on site. Through face-to-face engagements, workshops, and worker-led dialogues, the union took time to listen. The concerns raised were consistent and urgent-workers spoke of the need for job security, fair and timely wages, better health and safety measures, and most critically, a formal structure through which their voices could be heard. The absence of proper contracts and representation was not just a technical gap-it was a denial of basic rights.

Further actions include, NUM launching a purposeful drive to organize these previously unorganized workers. The goal is to provide them with a collective voice at the bargaining table, ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed, and to build real, impactful representation on construction sites across the country. This initiative extends to ensuring that women’s issues, such as the provision of proper ablution facilities and safe working environments, are no longer marginalized.

If we are able to organise these workers, they will finally have a chance-at job security, proper contracts, and a real voice in Bargaining Councils. This is not just union growth-it’s transformation. Ms Nthabiseng Khumalo, Secretary of NUM’s Women’s Structure

NUM's concentrated focus on the construction sector is driven by both the urgent necessity and the tangible opportunity for change. The union is rolling out targeted campaigns on sites to reach vulnerable workers, establishing a dedicated women’s structure to champion gender-specific issues, and pushing for proper representation in Bargaining Councils. A significant emphasis is also placed on the stronger enforcement of health and safety standards, always keeping the workers' well-being at the forefront.

Looking ahead to Congress 2025, NUM is building on this momentum with a set of resolutions that reflect the voices heard on the ground. These include the formal recognition of the Construction Women’s Committee, a national campaign for a R15,000 living wage, and expanded skills development for youth and women. While policies and legal frameworks matter, NUM understands that real change begins where workers are. On-site, in dusty boots and hard hats, they are building not only the cities of tomorrow but also the movement for justice, recognition, and dignity. The union stands beside them-not to speak on their behalf, but to build power with them, one site at a time.