President Cyril Ramaphosa has congratulated Zingiswa Losi on her election as the first female president of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu).
Cosatu plays a critical role in the lives of South Africa’s workers and is an ally in the country’s national effort to achieve inclusive economic growth and equality.
“Ms Losi is part of a growing corps of leadership in our country, who are emulating the examples set by a succession of notable women who have led our society in various capacities. This election is an important step forward and a powerful symbol in the year in which we are celebrating the centenary of Mama Albertina Sisulu.
“I am confident that in this eminent role, Ms Losi will serve the interests of workers with the passion and dedication she has displayed throughout her career as an activist and political leader. In this role she is certain to make an important contribution to our national effort to grow the economy and create jobs,” said the President.
The President hailed Losi’s unopposed election, adding that it “affirms women – and black women in particular- as political activists and social reformers, leaders” in their own right.
Losi previously served as Second Deputy President of Cosatu and is a member of the African National Congress National Executive Committee.
She emerged through the ranks of the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa), where she began her service to workers as a shop steward.
She served in various Numsa committees until she rose to the position of Cosatu Second Deputy President.
“The unopposed election of Cosatu’s new national officials is a welcome indicator of the unity of vision and purpose with which workers and their elected leaders are engaging in moving South Africa forward,” said President Ramaphosa.
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