29 Feb 2024 | 11:05 AM UTC
South Africa: Municipal workers strike continues in Durban, Feb. 29
Ongoing unionized municipal workers strike disrupting travel in Durban, South Africa, as of Feb. 29. Associated protests reported city-wide.
Municipal workers from the eThekwini Municipality affiliated with the South African Municipal Workers' Union (SAMWU) continue to strike Feb. 29. Strike action began Feb. 27. SAMWU is demanding higher salaries. Disruptions to public services have resulted in waste collection backlogs. Associated protests have been reported, with striking workers burning waste refuse and blocking roads, including along portions of the N2 highway near the former Durban airport. Other protest areas include Durban CBD, Verulam, Pinetown, and Umlazi.
Heightened security is likely near protest sites; road travel disruptions and delays are likely along the N2, N3, and R102 highways and Durban CBD. Clashes between protesters and the police are possible if demonstrators ignore police orders to disperse or engage in acts of public violence. Municipal employee absenteeism could prompt public service delays.
Avoid all protests; do not drive through protester roadblocks until officials have cleared them. Heed the instructions of officials. Plan accordingly for transport and service delivery disruptions. Plan for increased employee absenteeism. Allow extra time to reach destinations. Reconfirm the status of road routes before departure. Reconfirm administrative appointments.
