Durban CBD businesses close in support of Saftu march

Trade Union Federation, SAFTU is leading the marches which are taking place in major cities across the country.

They are demanding a higher minimum wage, and better working conditions. They are also calling for the nationalisation of mines.

A woman who works for one of the shops in the city centre says they decided to suspend trade in solidarity with the striking workers.

The SAFTU lead march has reached the half way mark through the Durban CBD and will end at the Durban City Hall. 

The marchers stop at intervals to get further instructions from their leaders.

ALSO READ: SAFTU marchers gather in Durban CBD

Before the march started, workers who came carrying traditional weapons were asked to exercise restraint and were told police will keep a close eye on them. 

Earlier, workers told Newswatch they earn as little as R1000 a month working labour intensive jobs.

They say with their current pay, they are trapped in a cycle of poverty.

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