The National Union of Mineworkers losses a stalwart

Imogen Vollenhoven
28 December 2012

The National Union of Mineworkers notes with sadness the sudden
passing of one of its stalwart’s uMama Sylvia Benjamin who together with
James Motlatsi, Cyril Ramaphosa and the late Elijah Barayi led the NUM in
its early founding years.

Benjamin was the first woman Treasurer General of the NUM and laid the sound financial management and control of the NUM in the founding years.

Spokesperson Lesiba Seshoka said the NUM owes its success in the latter years to her sound financial stewardship.

Seshoka adds that Mama Benji, as she was popularly known remained a pillar of strength and provided guidance even after her term came to an end.

Seshoka furthermore said she has been with the NUM through thick and thin even during the most turbulent times of the 80s.

The NUM dips its flag and banners in honour of this giant and mother of the
trade union movement.