The Motor Industry Staff Association has called on government to provide comprehensive relief on the wholesale price of illuminating paraffin, which has risen by R11,67 per litre.
The union said the price increase threatens millions of low-income South African households who rely on paraffin for cooking, heating and lighting as winter approaches.
“Paraffin is the primary source of energy for millions of South Africans who use it for cooking, heating and lighting. It is a basic necessity for the poorest of the poor. The doubling of its price threatens to deepen energy poverty, exacerbate food insecurity and strip vulnerable households of their dignity,” said Martlé Keyter, MISA’s chief executive officer for operations.
Keyter said families already struggling to survive will be forced into harsher conditions, with limited alternatives available to them.
Whilst MISA welcomed the temporary R3 reduction in the fuel levy announced by government for April, the union expressed concern about the likelihood of the conflict continuing beyond May.
The union called on government to implement a broader relief package that prioritises affordability and access. Practical measures could include targeted subsidies for paraffin to protect low-income households, price stabilisation mechanisms to prevent extreme fluctuations, investment in alternative energy solutions for vulnerable communities and extended fuel levy reductions beyond May.
“The price hikes created a global humanitarian crisis. Our government must act decisively to shield the poorest households from the devastating impact of unaffordable energy. MISA reaffirms its commitment to advocating for fair and just policies that protect workers, families and the most vulnerable members of society,” said Keyter.
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