26 February 2026
The Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) stands in solidarity with COSATU and its public sector unions as they embark on their National Day of Action today against the unaffordable increases imposed by the Government Employees Medical Scheme.
The fight for affordable healthcare for public servants belongs to all workers. This struggle is bigger than federation lines. It is about defending teachers, nurses, police officers and all public servants who are being squeezed by medical aid increases of more than 23 percent over the past two years, including the 9.8 percent increase implemented in January 2026, which was subsequently adjusted to 9.5 percent on 1 February 2026.
FEDUSA and its public service unions took the first decisive step this past Saturday when thousands of workers marched in Pretoria and handed over a comprehensive Memorandum of Demands to GEMS. We expect GEMS to provide substantive and satisfactory feedback within seven days in line with the commitment made during the protest action. Should they fail to do so, our action will be intensified.
We also welcome COSATU’s clear support for the review of PSCBC Resolution 1 of 2006, which established GEMS, among other demands raised in this campaign. The review of this Resolution was formally tabled at the PSCBC by FEDUSA, and engagements on it will commence in March. It is encouraging that there is now broad labour agreement that the funding model, governance framework
and sustainability approach of GEMS must be reconsidered.
Workers cannot continue to absorb double-digit increases while their wages remain constrained. Lower- income members cannot be priced out of meaningful healthcare cover. Decisions that affect thousands of public servants and their families must be transparent, accountable and aligned with the original social solidarity purpose of the scheme.
FEDUSA remains committed to united worker action where it strengthens the collective voice of public servants. At the same time, we will continue to engage as organised labour within the bargaining structures to ensure that the review of Resolution 1 of 2006 delivers real change and restores GEMS to its founding mandate.
Public servants are united in defence of their dignity and their right to affordable healthcare!
END.