South Africa: Unions plan nationwide strike, protests against unemployment, Oct. 7 /update 1

Members of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), South Africa's largest federation of unions, have called for a "National Day of Action" against unemployment on Oct. 7. The action will consist of a nationwide strike and protests. COSATU announced related gatherings at the following locations:

• Amazimtoti: Protest at Makro retail store; time remains unclear.

• Cape Town: March from Hanover Street to the National Parliament, 08:30.

• Durban: March from Nkosi Dinuzulu Park to City Hall, 09:30.

• Durban: Protest at Isibaya Casino; time remains unclear.

• East London: March from North End Stadium to the Department of Labour, 09:00.

• Johannesburg: March from Sandton Park to the Treasury and the South African Reserve Bank, amongst other locations, 08:30.

• Jozini: Protest at Jozini Tiger Lodge; time remains unclear.

• Kimberley: March from the Honoured Dead Memorial to the office of the Premier, 09:00.

• Komatipoort: March from Strydom Block Road to the Sonoma Investment farm, 10:00.

• Pietermaritzburg: Protest at Makro retail store; time remains unclear.

• Polokwane: March from SABC Park to the office of the Premier, amongst other locations, 09:00.

• Rustenburg: March from the taxi rank to the Municipal offices, amongst other locations, 08:00.

• Sasolburg: March from Eric Louw Circle to the Municipal offices, 08:00.

Additional protests are likely in large urban areas. Increased security will likely be deployed near government agencies and company headquarters to monitor rallies. Transport disruptions are likely near protest sites. While most marches should be peaceful, isolated clashes between striking workers, private security, and authorities remain possible. Thousands are likely to participate in the strike. The strike could prompt increased employee absenteeism, possibly affecting public services, healthcare, and air travel.