Hundreds of public sector workers go on strike in South Africa

Hundreds of civil servants in the Republic of South Africa (South Africa) began a nationwide strike demanding higher wages and better working conditions, Anadolu Agency reports on November 10.

The strike was called after the government failed to agree to workers’ demands for a 6.5% pay increase, according to a statement from the Public Employees’ Association (PSA).

The government offered workers a 3% pay increase.

“Government employees, as well as other workers and taxpayers, are experiencing the severe impact of significant increases in fuel, transportation and food prices, as well as interest rate increases,” the PSA said in a statement.

Civil servants said their strike would have a major impact on government departments, especially the Ministry of the Interior, which issues identity cards and passports. It is likely that immigration services at border posts and airports in the country will be affected.

According to the PSA, this is the first major strike by civil servants since 2010.