"Over the month, essential workers risk their lives to save our beloved country from the coronavirus. There are new challenges, but the pivotal role played by the devoted essential workers in the promotion of our nation’s health remains the same," party leader Mbahare Kekana said in his Workers' Day message.

Only essential-service workers were allowed to work after a national state of emergency was declared on March 15 and a total lockdown was implemented in an attempt to arrest the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country. To date, the virus has infected more than 5,000 people in South Africa and killed 103.

"Workers of South Africa, on Workers' Day we celebrate all our physical and mental efforts we put in our economic, social and moral progress. We also renew our dedication to safeguarding the hard-fought gains of South African workers. Together we have made South Africa a prosperous and progressive nation. Our economy has found renewed strength because of the enthusiasm, hard work and collective contribution of our labour force," Kekana said.

"However, no matter how big our achievements, we must not become complacent. We will continue to work together to improve the conditions of workers and their well-being, our labour force being the most precious of all our resources. A force for progress and productivity."

He said this year F4SD is promoting a more patriotic approach to work, for all workers to show their love for the country through hard work.

"On this occasion (May Day), we also acknowledge the enterprising role of employers for creating job opportunities and honouring their obligations in providing conducive and safe working environments. Together, they are generating wealth for our economy."

South Africa has officially observed Workers' Day since 1994. However, for the first time, this year workers have been unable to attend mass marches in the streets or rallies at stadiums. The Covid-19 pandemic has forced them to celebrate at home as gatherings of more than 50 people are prohibited under the lockdown regulations. 

The novel coronavirus that causes the Covid-19 was first recorded in Wuhan, the capital of China’s Hubei province, in December 2019 and rapidly spread to the rest of the world. More than 3 million people have contracted the virus and more than 234,000 have died.

African News Agency