Eskom Wage Offer Rejected by Unions
Analysis based on 7 articles · First reported Feb 17, 2026 · Last updated Feb 18, 2026
The rejection of Eskom's 6% salary offer by major unions creates uncertainty for the South African economy, which relies heavily on Eskom for power. This dispute could lead to further instability in the power sector, potentially impacting investor confidence and economic growth if prolonged or if it results in industrial action.
Two of South Africa's largest trade unions, the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) and the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA), have rejected an improved 6% salary increase offer from the state-owned power utility Eskom. This rejection comes after Eskom initially offered 5.5%, which was then raised to 6% during a third round of talks. The NUM has revised its demand to 12% from an initial 15%, significantly above South African annual inflation of 3.6% in December. Union representatives, including Livhuwani Mammburu of NUM and Irvin Jim of NUMSA, argue that workers are responsible for Eskom's improved performance and should be rewarded accordingly. A third union, Solidarity, declined to comment. Further talks are scheduled, as Eskom seeks another multi-year wage deal following a 7% annual increase in 2023. The dispute poses a risk to Eskom's financial stability and the broader South African economy, which has historically suffered from power cuts.
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