UASA Media Release: 27 August 2025
In Picture: FEDUSA Vice President of Social Justice Anadele Coetzee addressing delegates at the opening of the National Gender Conference.
Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
In a country, society and workplaces where gender challenges, discrimination and inequality remain persistent, UASA joins the Federations of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) in calling for decisive action and practical solutions at the FEDUSA National Gender Conference.
“South Africa is at war with its women. Gender-based violence is a daily reality. Inequality is written into the economy, where women, specifically black women, dominate the most precarious sectors, earn less than men, and are often the first to be retrenched. If unions are to claim the title of champions of justice, then unions must stand at the frontline of this war. Not in slogans, but in practice. Not in promises but in action.”
These were the powerful words of Ms. Anadele Coetzee, FEDUSA Vice President of Social Justice, as the FEDUSA National Gender Conference opened today under the theme: “Strengthening Gender Policy through a Feminist Lens: Addressing Sexual Offences and Gender Justice in the World of Work.”
Through its affiliation with FEDUSA, UASA stands firm in its commitment to ending gender-based violence, workplace harassment, and discrimination in society and the workplace. Equality in the workplace and broader society is
not negotiable—it is a fundamental human right and a basic need for social progression.
The three-day conference addresses gender concepts and the application of International Labour Organisation (ILO) gender standards in union strategies. UASA supports these critical discussions as they align with labour’s advocacy to:
• Promote gender-sensitive collective bargaining frameworks.
• Address systemic inequalities that disadvantage women and marginalised workers.
• Ensure safe, inclusive workplaces free from fear and prejudice.
As a union, we are committed to standing alongside our members and partners to challenge harmful norms, close the wage gap and make workplaces safer and more equitable.
By participating in this conference, UASA affirms its role as a progressive trade union that recognises gender equality as central to economic growth, workplace stability and a just society.
UASA also looks forward to the session on the drafting of the Sexual Harassment Policy and Action Planning by Affiliates, which will be utilised by affiliates in their respective unions. We believe these policies will be progressive towards advancing labour to address these persisting challenges.
For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview, contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.