The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) PWV Region today served a 48-hour notice of strike action to Pharoah Cement in Alberton following a complete deadlock in wage negotiations. The strike is scheduled to commence on Monday, 12 October 2025. The union was awarded a certificate to strike by the CCMA on 3 October 2025, confirming the failure of negotiations between the parties.
The Wage Dispute
The core of the dispute revolves around the current low wages paid by the cement producer and the company’s inadequate offer.
| Current Pay Rate | R35.55 per hour |
| NUM Initial Demand | R10.00 increase per hour |
| NUM Revised Demand | R7.00 increase per hour |
| Pharoah Cement Final Offer | R2.14 – R2.48 increase per hour. |
Our members at Pharoah Cement are currently earning a meager R5,600 per month for demanding and critical work,” said Mandla Mgadi, NUM Chief Negotiator at Pharaoh Cement.. “We revised our demand significantly down to R7.00 per hour to find common ground, but the company’s final offer is simply an insult to the workers and does not address the rising cost of living.”
The decision to strike was mandated by the NUM members after management confirmed they would not improve their final offer. The union confirmed that picketing rules have been agreed upon with the employer and certified by the CCMA. The NUM remains committed to a negotiated settlement that provides a dignified and fair wage for its members.