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The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) applauds and congratulates its tireless affiliate, the Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA) for reaching 27 years of fostering the growth of nurses and advancing their aspirations in the workplace. 

DENOSA has stood the test of time, since its formation on this day in 1996, pushing back against the many challenges within the health care system that nurses are subjected to on a daily basis. 

This dedicated union appreciates the precarious conditions under which health practitioners exercise their duties including the recent implementation of the ill-conceived austerity measures which impede various development and improvement within the already ailing health sector. It has proven its mettle against the devious tactics that employers utilize to circumvent honoring collective bargaining agreements. 

DENOSA has had to battle callous employers refusing to provide the most basic necessities including uniforms or a safe working environment. 

Despite the pressures from government and the private sector as employees, DENOSA relentlessly champions the needs and rights of nurses across the nation. For the past 27 years, through its many achievements, its impressive growth in membership and the position it holds as the representative of the overwhelming majority of nurses, it is evident that the union fulfils the trust that nurses have bestowed upon it.

COSATU celebrates the members of DENOSA for entrusting the union to spearhead programs, activities and projects whose aim is to advance the interests of nurses. We have witnessed the commitment of the members who continue to show up despite the alarming levels of nurse shortages, low nurse: patient rations, the impact of COVID-19 and the many other immodest challenges. Despite a shortage of more than 26 000 nurses, they continue to serve the nation with the utmost diligence and dedication. 

As the union marks this milestone, the Federation has solid confidence in DENOSA’s capabilities over more years to come. 

Long Live DENOSA, Long Live

Issued by COSATU