UASA Media Release: 23 December 2025
Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
The workplace is changing faster than ever. Artificial intelligence and automation are transforming industries, reshaping roles and creating both opportunities and risks for workers, says UASA spokesperson Abigail Moyo.
“Jobs are evolving, some roles are disappearing, and new skills are essential to remain relevant. In this context, joining a union is no longer optional — it’s essential,” she stresses
Unions give workers collective strength and a voice. On their own, employees have little influence over how AI and automation are implemented, while through unions, they can negotiate fair policies, reskilling opportunities, and protections against job loss. Unions ensure that technological progress benefits employees, not just employers, and that workplace decisions remain transparent and fair, says Moyo.
“AI brings promise, but also challenges. It can boost productivity and create new opportunities, but it can also lead to job displacement, biased decision-making, and constant performance monitoring. A union provides the expertise, representation, and advocacy needed to navigate these changes safely and effectively.”
Even today, and especially today, Union membership is for everyone, she says — young or experienced, in finance or healthcare, mining or education.
“Young workers gain guidance to build future-ready careers, while experienced employees protect their accumulated rights. Across all sectors, unions foster solidarity and ensure that workers have a say in shaping their workplaces.”
What to look for in a union before joining?
Moyo says a union should:
- Represent workers across a broad range of industries affected by AI and automation.
- Combine professional, legally grounded representation with a forward-looking approach, negotiating reskilling initiatives, job protections, and fair policies.
- Have credibility with employers so that its members are taken seriously at work, making results effective and lasting.
- Be a safeguard that offers professional guidance, protection, and collective strength.
- Focus on protecting workers, including ensuring that technology enhances work rather than replacing or disadvantaging those who drive organisations forward.
- Have strong negotiators, advocators and long-term strategic planners who can actively push employers to prioritise upskilling and reskilling so that workers can grow alongside technological innovation.
- Ensure that progress is inclusive, fair and built on the principle that no worker should be left behind.
For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview, contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.