A coalition of public service unions affiliated with the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) is expected to protest against the 9.8% increase in the Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS) on the National Day of Action on Thursday, 26 February. 

The bodies include the Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA), National Education, the Health and Allied Workers' Union (NEHAWU), and the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU).

DENOSA President Simon Hlungwani said the increase was unjustified and would significantly ‘erode’ the income of public servants, making it difficult for them to cover basic needs like school fees, transportation, and food.

He added that 9.8% is above the average compared with contributions from other medical schemes.

“We reject with the strongest contempt the increase by GEMS of 9.8%, which is coupled with the reality that they increased by 13.4%.

“In November, we engaged when they [the government] were attempting to increase for this year. But they seem be listening but not hearing us.”

Members are expected to gather in Pretoria, the Western Cape, and other provinces across the country

Hlungwani emphasised that the National Day of Action is not intended to disrupt essential services, but rather to demonstrate the power of public servants and their commitment to their cause. Eye Witness News