The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA)’s National Gender Structure convened a two-day workshop on sexual harassment in Mthatha, Eastern Cape from the 16th to the 17th of October. The gathering also served as a platform for solidarity and compassion, as the Gender Structure delivered a second round of donations to victims of the devastating floods that struck the province in June.
The floods claimed over 100 lives and displaced more than 10,000 families. Among the deceased were loved ones of NUMSA members, making this tragedy deeply personal for the union. Months later, many affected families remain in temporary shelters, facing daily struggles to rebuild their lives.
Led by NUMSA’s 2nd Deputy President, Puleng Phaka, the Gender Structure has been actively coordinating relief efforts. This latest donation drive follows an earlier initiative held in partnership with the Red Cross on Mandela Day in July. Contributions were made possible through the generosity of the Western Cape Region and the Northern Cape & Free State Region, who fundraised and donated essential items including sanitary towels, soap, toothpaste, dry goods, tinned food, school shoes, diapers, clothing, and footwear.
“Solidarity is not just a slogan—it’s a living commitment to our members and communities,” said Puleng Phaka, NUMSA’s 2nd Deputy President. “We are proud of our regions for stepping up once again. Their compassion and unity reflect the true spirit of worker-led activism.”
In addition to the relief efforts, the workshop featured a comprehensive training session on sexual harassment, facilitated by Vuvu Mdlalo of Kungawobantu, a skills and training organisation. Mdlalo guided NUMSA shop stewards and members through the legal framework surrounding sexual harassment, offering practical tools for identifying, reporting, and addressing misconduct in the workplace.
Further workshops on sexual harassment are scheduled to take place in the Western Cape over the coming weekend, as NUMSA continues its commitment to creating safer, more equitable workplaces.
ENDS
For media enquiries, please contact:
Phakamile Hlubi-Majola
NUMSA National Spokesperson
Cellphone: 083 376 7725
Email: phakamileh@numsa.org.za
NUMSA Head Office: 011 689 1700
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Website: www.numsa.org.za
PDF DOWNLOAD: NUMSA Gender Structure Delivers Second Round of Relief to Eastern Cape Flood Victims