Kaizer Motaung hails the COVID-19 workers

“I would like to dedicate this International Workers’ Day to the essential service workers, who are in the forefront of saving lives during this time of the Covid-19 pandemic,” salutes Chairman Kaizer Motaung. “The situation that we are facing could’ve been worse if it were not for these workers who are selflessly rendering the essential services needed during this time.”

In South Africa, Workers’ Day celebrates the role played by the Trade Unions, the Communist Party and other labour movements in the struggle against Apartheid.

“The fight against Apartheid was a concerted effort by the organised formations from different affiliations,” says the Chairman, “Covid-19 itself is a monumental task and only joint efforts will see us through. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that I encourage most especially the frontline services who have been called upon to risk their own lives, to keep on going strong and continue to do their best. Most importantly, to remain committed and dedicated to their calling. The country needs you more than ever before.”

Workers’ Day is not only celebrated in South Africa, but by many countries around the globe. It is meant to recognise millions of workers/labourers who work hard to keep many economies running.

“I cannot forget our government leaders and officials who themselves are also workers,” he adds. “They too deserve encouragement and support as they are spearheading the intervention programmes to alleviate the impact of Covid-19 in our country. I salute the Minister of Health Dr Zweli Mkhize, his staff members and committees that are working around the clock to map out the solutions to protect us from this infectious disease.

“While we celebrate the workers that are rendering services at this juncture, Covid-19 has placed business under a tremendous strain. Many companies cannot cope and are forced into the unfortunate action of closing down or workforce reduction. I hope that this experience will lead to reassessing and restructuring of businesses which will eventually result in the staff rehiring in the future of those who have lost their jobs. Companies should use this time to reinvent their brand identities to try and maintain a certain level of sustainability during volatile times.

“The celebration date of the Workers Day coincides with the start of the Covid-19 Alert Level 4 of the Government Regulations. Some business sectors are required to resume with business from 1 May. I, therefore, wish that companies will be able to develop a rapid response to address the required workplace safety measures of protecting the workers according to the Government Covid-19 regulations.

“I pledge my support to the medical professionals and the entire staff members at the hospitals and various other health care facilities and the law enforcement brigade who continue to carry out their duties with honour and dignity. “

The Chairman concluded by saying: “To Amakhosi and the people at large, let us do our part of saving lives by following the Government’s Covid-19 rules and regulations.”