Preparations are underway to mark International Workers Day at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, Limpopo, on May 1, 2026. The Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) is hosting the national celebrations that coincide with its 40th Anniversary.
Cosatu President Zingiswa Losi will deliver the keynote address. This year’s event highlights ongoing issues such as South African unemployment, which continues to rise each year. There are nine million South Africans under the age of 34 who are not employed.
Key facts about the celebrations:
- International Workers’ Day was first celebrated in South Africa in 1986.
- Workers will gather at the Bultfontein Stadium for an event commemorating Workers’ Day.
- The trade union federation’s 1st Deputy President, Mike Shingange, will deliver a keynote address at the Free State event.
- Messages of support will be delivered by alliance partners including the African National Congress (ANC).
The ANC has expressed its commitment to workers’ rights. Paul Mashatile stated, “The ANC continues to stand with workers in advancing their rights, and reaffirming the shared commitment to dignity, decent work and economic justice.” Yet, many voices within parliament have criticized the current situation, referring to it as a “nightmare” for young people.
Job creation remains a critical issue. One speaker noted that “job creation will require extremely hard work to improve this situation.” As Labour Day approaches, these discussions will take center stage as workers gather to honor their contributions.
