Tshwane:Employment and Labour Deputy Minister Jomo Sibiya has praised the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) for its significant role in promoting labour stability, preserving jobs, and ensuring access to justice over the past three decades. The organization has consistently achieved a dispute settlement rate above 70%, reaching 76% in the 2025/2026 financial year.
According to South African Government News Agency, Sibiya addressed the 30th Anniversary Commemorative Conference of the CCMA, highlighting its growth from handling 62,927 referrals in its first year to approximately three times that number annually. This growth reflects the ongoing demand for its services and its contribution to fostering trust and fairness in the labour relations environment.
The CCMA's 30th anniversary coincides with 31 years of the Labour Relations Act of 1995, which provided the legislative framework for fair labour practices and accessible dispute resolution. Sibiya noted that the CCMA's work extends beyond resolving workplace disputes and has been instrumental in saving jobs, especially during economic challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
The institution has expanded its reach from 10 to 25 offices and introduced digital platforms, including a free online labour advice tool and a WhatsApp chatbot launched in July 2026, to enhance accessibility. Additionally, the CCMA has received its fifth consecutive clean audit and met all its planned performance targets for the previous financial year.
However, Sibiya emphasized the need to reduce the time taken to resolve disputes without compromising the quality of arbitration awards. Looking forward, he identified key challenges, including labour market distress, changing work forms, legislative reform, and institutional sustainability.
Proposed legislative changes, such as the Labour Law Amendment Bill, aim to introduce protections for employees in non-traditional work arrangements and enhance statutory severance pay. The CCMA's expanding responsibilities require adequate resources, and Sibiya called on organized labour, business, and government to support the institution.
Reflecting on its establishment in November 1996, Sibiya acknowledged the CCMA's record of over four million referrals, consistent high settlement rates, and a legacy of clean governance. He underscored the importance of continued commitment from all stakeholders to ensure justice for every worker in the next 30 years. Sibiya congratulated the CCMA on its 30 years of service to the nation.
Source South African Government News Agency