UASA Media Release: 12 October 2026
In Picture: FEDUSA General Secretary Riefdah Ajam addressing delegates at the opening of the Social Justice Committee pre-congress activity.
Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
Gender equality, inclusion, decent work, women’s leadership and equal pay for work of equal value were among the key themes highlighted during the FEDUSA Social Justice Committee (SJC) pre-congress activity held at the Destiny Hotel and Convention Centre in Kempton Park.
Representatives from organised labour delivered a clear message that women are ready to strengthen their voices, take up leadership space and confront gender-based violence and harassment (GBVH), including the challenges affecting communities in and around Kempton Park.
Opening the event, Riefdah Ajam, General Secretary of FEDUSA, described the Social Justice Committee as a cornerstone of both the trade union movement and broader society, particularly at a time when GBVH and femicide continue to have a devastating impact across the country.
She emphasised that the gathering represented labour’s call to action and demonstrated the commitment of the trade union movement to take a leading role in the fight against GBVH and femicide.
Delivering an international perspective, Gisele Dehion-Dogui, Chairperson of CISL-DIGNITE in Ivory Coast, called for the wider implementation of the International Labour Organisation’s Convention 190 (ILO C190) across labour organisations on the African continent. She highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by domestic violence and workplace bullying and stressed the need for continued interventions and support mechanisms.
Dehion-Dogui also advocated for greater representation of women in leadership roles, noting that while women make up a significant portion of the workforce, they remain underrepresented in decision-making positions.
A unifying message throughout the event was that women are not seeking to take power away from others, but rather are calling for greater inclusion and shared leadership opportunities across all sectors.
UASA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Social Justice Committee initiatives aimed at promoting safe and inclusive workplaces, equal opportunities, dignity and meaningful representation for all workers. The union will continue to engage in collective labour efforts to ensure that gender justice and equality remain key priorities within the trade union movement and has expressed its support for the anticipated adoption of a gender policy at the upcoming conference.
For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview, contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.