SABC News reports that hundreds of COSATU members marched with workers from Sonoma Investment Corporation Farm in Komatipoort, Mpumalanga. The workers have accused the farm owners of unfair labour practice. They braved the heat and in solidarity with farm workers. Farm workers at Sonoma Investment Corporation Farm claim the living and working conditions are deplorable.

Cosatu claims that farm workers are being exploited and their human rights violated at farms. The workers, who are mostly foreign nationals, demand better wages and better working conditions. “We don’t have standard payment, they don’t pay us for holidays, sick leave,” a worker says “We are from Mozambique and they don’t want us to join unions. We are not allowed to use the bathroom during working hours,” another worker explains. “We pay R500 for rent and the houses are dilapidated and riddled with rats,” a worker elaborates.

COSATU wants the farm to also contribute to UIF and a Provident Fund, proper transportation and protective gear. The union has urged the Labour Department to prioritize these issues. The Labour Department has promised to investigate the allegations and of other farms across the province. A farm representative declined to comment.

by Tumelo Machogo