Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour, Jomo Sibiya, emphasized the importance of adhering to legal processes during an advocacy session held at Khethani Sports Ground in Winterton on 31 May 2025.

Addressing farmworkers and employers in the uThukela District, the Deputy Minister reaffirmed the Department's commitment to upholding labour laws and ensuring fair treatment in the workplace.

"The way of doing things must follow due process. No one is above the law – we are a country governed by the rule of law," said Deputy Minister Sibiya.

The session, led by the Department's Inspection and Enforcement Services unit, is part of an ongoing campaign to monitor and promote compliance in the agricultural sector.

Deputy Minister Sibiya announced that the Department would be conducting inspections across all farms in the uThukela District to address the concerns raised by workers. "We have heard your complaints. We are here to ensure that everything is in order," he said.

A significant issue highlighted during the engagement was the employment of undocumented foreign nationals. The Deputy Minister reiterated the Department's firm stance on legal compliance, stating that no employer is exempt from the law.

"We are determined to ensure that all workers are treated fairly, regardless of nationality. Employers must comply with our labour laws. We urge communities to report any form of unfair treatment at the workplace – we are here to address your concerns," he added.

Sibiya stressed the importance of collaboration with local stakeholders, including traditional leaders and municipal authorities, to identify and address employment-related challenges. "We are working closely with mayors and traditional leaders in affected communities. These stakeholders cannot be overlooked. They are integral to our efforts on the ground," he said.

"This is not about any individual or Minister – it's about ensuring that we follow through on our commitment to regulated and fair employment practices, even in rural areas. We must be deliberate in how job opportunities are created, including within our own department,"

Sfiso Ndlovu from the Commission on Restitution of Land Rights (CRLR) provided an update on land claims in KwaZulu-Natal. He reported that by 31 December 1998, a total of 14,808 land restitution claims had been lodged in the province. As of the end of May 2025, 13,083 of those claims have been settled, including the restoration of land rights.

Currently, there are 1,725 outstanding claims, which include 1,670 pure outstanding claims and 55 phased claims.

Ndlovu also reported on the second window for land claims, open from 1 July 2014 to 28 July 2016. During that period, 40,277 new claims were lodged.

"These new claims have undergone rigorous screening and lodgement procedures, ensuring they meet the required quality standards," he said.

The CRLR continues to process these claims in line with the Restitution of Land Rights Act (Act No. 22 of 1994), which mandates the restoration of land rights to individuals and communities dispossessed under racially discriminatory laws.

The Mayor of uKhahlamba Local Municipality, Councillor V.R. Mlotshwa, expressed gratitude to the Deputy Minister for visiting the area and acknowledged the Department's efforts to improve the lives of residents.

"We appreciate the work the Department is doing to bring change to our communities, especially in addressing labour and land issues," said Cllr Mlotshwa.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Teboho Thejane

Departmental Spokesperson

082 697 0694/ teboho.thejane@labour.gov.za

-ENDS-

Issued by: Department of Employment and Labour

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