Transport workers launch nationwide strike

Members of the South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU) began a nationwide strike on 7 April 2009. Approximately 30,000 freight and long-haul drivers are expected to participate in the strike, which is proceeding despite ongoing negotiations with the Road Freight Association (RFA) to address drivers’ salary grievances. SATAWU has stated that its members will continue the strike until their demands are met. The labour action has raised concerns about nationwide fuel shortages. Although some fuel distributing companies -- including Engen and Chevron South Africa -- have stated that they have put contingency plans in place to ensure fuel delivery to their depots, authorities expect most petrol stations to have limited fuel supplies once their current supplies run out.