International transport unions to converge on Durban

ALAN PEAT
ONE OF the world’s largest federations of trade unions, the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF), is to have its 41st congress in South Africa in August. It will be held in Durban from August 2-9, its first time on African soil, under the theme: “Organising globally, fighting for our rights”. Promoting the event is local member, the SA Transport and Allied Workers’ Union (Satawu) – which has unfortunately had its reputation blighted in recent times by violence amongst its striking members. Of especial significance for Satawu is that union secretary-general, Randall Howard, is one of the candidates for the presidency of the ITF – and, according to union sources, stands a realistic chance of being its first African president. The ITF has a membership of 624 unions - representing 4 400 000 transport workers in 142 countries. Headquarters are in London, with offices in Nairobi, Ouagadougou, Tokyo, New Delhi, Rio de Janeiro, Georgetown, Moscow and Brussels. According to Satawu media officer, Ronnie Mamba, it has representatives in a number of bodies which take decisions affecting jobs and employment conditions.