Cape Town – President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights, warning against calls to relax labour laws in the face of economic challenges.
In his weekly newsletter on Monday, Ramaphosa said progressive labour legislation enacted since 1994 has played a vital role in correcting the injustices of apartheid and promoting economic equity.
He highlighted the National Minimum Wage, worker share ownership schemes, and protections for women and vulnerable employees as critical reforms that have improved the lives of many.
“Stimulating economic growth and job creation and retaining worker protections are not mutually exclusive,” Ramaphosa said, adding that labour rights can enhance productivity and promote stability.
At a time when our singular focus is on inclusive economic growth and job creation, we must continue to work together to improve the lives of every South African worker. Let us use the hard-won gains of workers to create new opportunities for all. https://t.co/uVQRYU31Dd pic.twitter.com/wlg9B88G9l
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) May 5, 2025
He acknowledged ongoing disparities, particularly racial imbalances in top management and limited protection for workers in the informal sector, but urged businesses to uphold both the letter and spirit of laws such as the Employment Equity Act and Labour Relations Act.
As South Africa prepares to lead the G20 Presidency, Ramaphosa said worker rights will remain a focus area, with continued collaboration between government, business, and labour to create inclusive workplaces and expand opportunities for under-represented groups.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
