UASA Media Release: 22 September 2025
FEDUSA President Godfrey Selematsela, addressing delegates at the opening of the Climate Change and Youth Summit earlier today.
Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
UASA has expressed its strong support for a just and inclusive transition, joining workers, youth leaders, and policy experts at the FEDUSA Climate Change and Youth Summit held at the Holiday Inn Hotel in Boksburg.
During the opening of the two-day summit, FEDUSA President Godfrey Selematsela emphasised the need to address environmental and social challenges as interconnected issues. He reminded participants of the critical importance of social dialogue and advocacy in tackling these challenges.
“Climate change and youth marginalisation must not be viewed as parallel crises,” Selematsela stated. “We must commit to a just and inclusive transition rooted in dignity, solidarity, and the protection of both workers and communities most affected by climate change.”
The summit, themed “Building a Just Transition for Workers and the Planet,” is focusing on how rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and the shift to low-carbon economies are reshaping jobs, industries, and communities in South Africa.
Delegates discussed various studies and examples from other countries that have addressed climate change challenges and successfully transitioned to sustainable practices without compromising jobs. A sector-by-sector approach was recommended to ensure equality across different sectors and that no worker is left behind.
Attendees noted that climate impacts are already being felt in sectors such as mining, agriculture, energy, manufacturing, and transport. Without targeted policy support and robust social dialogue, the transition to a greener economy could worsen unemployment and increase inequality—especially for young people.
Key highlights from the opening sessions included:
• A benchmark study on South Africa’s long-term low-emission development strategy, presented by Dr Yvonne Lewis from Green House, emphasises the need for clear roadmaps and credible investment plans.
• Climate change specialist Zukile White, who advocated for responses tailored to local realities, pointed out that communities experience the most severe consequences of climate shocks.
• A presentation titled “Labour at the Frontlines,” by Lebogang Molaisi, Executive Manager for Policy and Research in the Presidential Climate Commission, which explored how to defend jobs and ensure justice during the climate transition.
UASA commends FEDUSA’s leadership in addressing climate change and emphasises that workers’ voices must remain central as South Africa reshapes its economy to respond to climate risks.
It is encouraging to see that the federation values inclusive dialogue, particularly with youth, as young people are essential to the value chain and economic progress.
Climate change is not merely an environmental issue; it is also an economic and social challenge. A just transition entails creating jobs, ensuring dignity, and providing opportunities for workers and young people, as we work together to build resilient and sustainable futures for all.
For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview, contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.