South Africa: Transnet workers currently protesting along the Victoria Embankment in Durban, Oct. 14.

Event

Transnet employees are currently protesting along the Victoria Embankment in Durban, on Oct. 14. About 100 cars are reportedly proceeding at a slow pace along the M4 toward their picketing location on Bayhead Road. The protest is part of a nationwide movement that began on Oct. 6. Since, multiple locations have been affected by protests near Transnet ports in Cape Town, Saldanha, and Durban.

Ground transportation disruptions are ongoing in the vicinity of the demonstration. Security personnel will almost certainly monitor the gathering and may try to disperse protesters if they are disruptive. Clashes between police and demonstrators are possible.

Context

United National Transport Union (UNTU) have been picketing since Oct. 6, and the South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU) joined the action on Oct. 10. Transnet declared "force majeure" on Oct. 7. Unions are demanding a salary increase 12-13.5 percent, while Transnet has so far offered 3-4.5 percent. Transnet is a majority state-owned entity that manages freight rail transport, ports, and pipelines.

Advice

Avoid routes near the motorcade. Heed the directives of local security officials. Allow additional time to reach destinations near the port of Durban.