Churchwomen applaud the government for having introduced a legislation that effectively protects domestic workers against blatant exploitation and violation of their human rights.

It has to be understood that this legislation is not a witch-hunt against anybody but a significant recognition that domestic workers, too, do deserve to be treated humanly. We are specifically encouraged by the willingness on the part some employers to embrace the legislation and register their employees for the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF). We urge those that have not done so to follow suit as soon as possible.

"Employers are advised not to engage services of domestic workers if they cannot afford to pay the stipulated minimum wage" said the General Secretary of the SACC, Dr Molefe Tsele, "simply because they will be infringing this important labour law". It must remain within the rights of domestic workers to choose who they want to work for, only if the employment conditions are worker-friendly. In our view, the prescribed minimum reward is ethical and should be seen as a base for domestic helpers, employers are also encouraged to include other benefits such as pension fund, medical aid, etc.

As the WEC, we undertake to increase our efforts by:

• Raising awareness on this legislation.
• Work with SACC Provincial Offices to monitor those who do not comply.
• Litigate on behalf of the complainants and
• Ensure that violators of this law are prosecuted.

In this regard, we condemn the acts of those who would choose to ignore this legislation and continue to exploit the labour and services rendered by domestic workers. We also charge churches to shoulder the responsibility of counselling those employees and employers who would find this legislation hard to implement. Both should be inspirited to hold hands and ensure that our nationhood is no longer exploited and built on the back of the weak.

For further information, contact Ms. Tiny Leshika at 082 432 2509.