A Union Built by Workers, for Workers
For over three decades, NOWUSA has stood at the side of South African workers — organising, representing and winning. This is who we are.
Defending workers, advancing dignity
To unite and represent workers across South Africa, to defend their rights, to negotiate fair wages and safe conditions, and to build the collective power workers need to shape their own futures.
Fair, safe, democratic workplaces for all
A South Africa where every worker — in every sector and every community — enjoys dignity at work, a living wage, and a genuine voice in the decisions that affect their lives.
Our Core Values
Solidarity
An injury to one is an injury to all. We stand together, across every sector and border.
Justice
We pursue fairness in every workplace and in the laws that govern work.
Equality
Equal treatment, equal pay and equal opportunity for every worker.
Transparency
Open books, open meetings and honest accountability to our members.
Democracy
Members lead. Every decision flows from the workers we represent.
Dignity
Every worker deserves respect, safety and a decent standard of living.
Our Mission for the Coming Years
Defend every worker
Strengthen representation, respond faster to workplace issues and make sure members never face unfair treatment alone.
Build stronger branches
Grow active local structures, train shop stewards and bring support closer to workers in every province and sector.
Campaign for decent work
Push for fair wages, safer workplaces, secure jobs and dignity for workers in both formal and informal employment.
Prepare workers for change
Equip members for new workplace realities through education, digital access, organising tools and practical rights training.
Lead with honesty and integrity
Remain democratic, accountable and member-led, with every decision guided by workers' needs and collective power.
Our Leadership
An elected executive, accountable to members and serving with honesty and integrity.
Christopher Mthembu
Sibusiso Buthelezi
Nhlakanipho Zungu
Pesswell Mpila
Sibusiso Ngcobo
Run by Members, for Members
NOWUSA is a democratic organisation. Our constitution, regular elections and member decision-making ensure that power stays where it belongs — with workers.
- Adopted constitution & member code
- Regular democratic elections
- Published annual reports
- Independent financial audits
- Member-led decision making
Part of a Bigger Movement
We work alongside national federations, international union partners and civil-society allies to amplify workers' voices.
National labour federations
United with the broader South African labour movement.
International union partners
Connected to global solidarity networks.
Civil-society partners
Working with community and rights organisations.
Become Part of the Movement
Join over 120,000 workers building stronger, fairer workplaces across South Africa.