African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has urged global labour solidarity and emphasized the need for beneficiation and the strategic use of critical minerals to drive economic growth. His remarks came during his address at the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) Elective Congress, where delegates are set to elect new leadership for the next three years amid challenging economic conditions.
Strengthening the Tripartite Alliance
Mbalula reaffirmed the ANC’s commitment to its alliance with NUM, describing the union as an “indispensable force” in South Africa’s labour movement. He highlighted the importance of unity within the tripartite alliance—comprising the ANC, the South African Communist Party (SACP), and the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU)—to navigate economic and political challenges.
“The ANC has emphasized the critical alliance between itself and NUM, focusing on industrialization and beneficiation to grow the economy despite the mining sector’s difficulties,” Mbalula stated.
Addressing Worker Concerns and GNU Tensions
The NUM Congress takes place against a backdrop of worker dissatisfaction, particularly regarding the Government of National Unity (GNU), which includes parties some union leaders believe could undermine labour gains. NUM’s outgoing president reportedly expressed reservations about the GNU, reflecting broader tensions within the alliance.
In response, Mbalula acknowledged disagreements but defended the ANC’s decision to form a GNU following the 2024 elections, which saw the party lose its outright majority. He described the move as a necessary response to the electoral outcome, stressing that the ANC remains the dominant force within the coalition.
“The GNU was a major decision, not an easy one, but necessary given the political landscape,” Mbalula said. “We engage with our allies, even when they critique us, because our role is to explain and educate on these decisions.”
Economic Focus: Beneficiation and Industrialization
Mbalula underscored the mining sector’s role in boosting South Africa’s GDP, calling for greater beneficiation—the local processing of raw minerals—to create jobs and stimulate industrial growth. His remarks align with longstanding ANC policy but come as miners face economic hardships, including job losses and fluctuating commodity prices.
Looking Ahead
As NUM prepares to elect new leadership, the union’s stance on the GNU and its relationship with the ANC will be closely watched. Mbalula’s speech sought to reassure workers of the alliance’s resilience while acknowledging internal debates.
“The center is holding,” he asserted, signaling the ANC’s determination to maintain stability despite political shifts.
The NUM Congress continues amid high expectations from workers for stronger representation and economic interventions in an uncertain global climate.