Gautrain workers threaten to down tools

By Lungile Ntimba

The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) is set to go on strike at the Gautrain following a following a deadlock in wage talks with the Bombela Operating Company (BOC), which manages the rail system.

“Wage negotiations deadlocked on the 9th of June 2025 and Numsa filed a dispute with the CCMA (Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration) which was heard yesterday,” Numsa spokesperson Phakamile Hlubi-Majola said in a statement 

“Unfortunately, parties were still unable to find one another due to the arrogance of the Bombela Operating Company (BOC) management which has resulted in a certificate to strike being issued.”

She said the BOC management failed to present a meaningful offer, only proposing a 4.2% increase, and that CCMA facilitation led by a senior commissioner did not produce any positive outcome.

Numsa members are sticking to their demands, which include a 7% wage increase across the