By Rahim Abdul
Textile companies in South Africa say they are struggling with a shortage of workers following the deportation of foreign nationals who were staying in the country without valid documents.
The situation is particularly affecting the industrial city of Newcastle, where textile companies are reporting a significant decline in their workforce.
Some employers say the number of workers at their companies has fallen by as much as 19 percent following the removal of undocumented foreign workers.
Employers say many of the deported workers had valuable skills that were essential to the textile manufacturing industry.
Among those affected were workers with sewing and other specialised skills needed for the production of clothing and textiles.
According to employers, replacing these workers has proved difficult because many South Africans are reluctant to take up jobs in the sector.
They say local workers often avoid such jobs because they are poorly paid compared to the demands and workload involved.
However, labour organisations have rejected claims that the main problem is a shortage of skills among South Africans.
The organisations argue that the real challenge is low wages, which have become increasingly difficult to live on as the cost of goods and services continues to rise.
They have also raised concerns over working conditions, saying some textile factories do not provide adequate care and suitable conditions for employees.
The labour organisations believe that improving wages and working conditions could encourage more South Africans to take up jobs in the textile sector.
The situation has therefore sparked debate between employers and labour organisations over how South Africa can address worker shortages while also improving employment opportunities and conditions for local workers.
