Today, March 1, begins the first day of a new month, as well as the beginning of the end of the first quarter of the year. Ans for the South African worker. It bears good tidings.
For one, the South African government has announced a new minimum wage – an increase from what the workers are already familiar with.
The national minimum wage has been increased by 6.9% from the minimum wage set in 2021. So, now, workers are to earn R23.19 for each hour worked.
In previous years, specific worker groups were provided exceptions. There were no exceptions this year, as the National Minimum Wage Commission is determined to have equality in wages distribution.
The body recently published proposals that domestic worker salaries be increased by 100 percent of the national minimum wage.
In 2020, the minimum wage for domestic workers was 75 percent of the national minimum wage. It was increased to 88 percent in 2021 and finally 100 percent in 2022.
The announcement of the increase has led to jubilation among domestic workers. But as one Twitter user observed, the increase in the minimum wage is one thing; making the most of the increase is what counts, ultimately.
Anyway, for the Mzansi worker, it appears like the good times are here, after all.
