By Annisa Esasck
28:02:2022

Truck protests have been, especially in the KZN region, have been associated with violence over the last few years as many truck drivers call for companies to prioritise hiring locals over foreign truckers.

South African truck drivers attempted to close the N3 freeway, blocking the route between Leondale and Heidelberg, but police thwarted them. The Road Freight Association reacted after the All-Truck Drivers Forum announced a nationwide strike.

Radio Islam International chatted to RFA CEO Gavin Kelly explained that the core request from the South African truckers is once again based on the narrative that foreigners are taking the jobs of South Africans.

The truckers marched on the National Bargaining Council, the structure with the Department of Labour which looks after the sector. The truckers, who are not affiliated with unions, want to involve themselves in the issue of salary and conditions of employment, which were dealt with last by the council and employers.

Kelly further explained that the ATDF has demanded that South African citizens drive South African registered vehicles.

Regarding the 15% wage increase, Kelly says none of the unions have picked up the issue as they were involved in the negotiations that happened last year when it was settled at 5% because many companies are struggling.

[LISTEN] to the podcast here