The Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) has raised concerns over the Unemployment Insurance Fund’s failure to deactivate its old website, warning that thousands of unemployed South Africans may be submitting claims through an outdated system. The union said the continued availability of the platform has caused confusion and delays in processing payments.
Cosatu spokesperson Zanele Sabela stated that many applicants only discovered the error after experiencing lengthy delays and making follow-up calls.
“It was only later, after they had not received payment and contacted the office, that they were informed they had used the wrong site and had to reapply,” Sabela said. “It came as a big surprise that the old website had not been shut down.”
Cosatu is calling for urgent action to deactivate the outdated platform and improve communication to prevent further delays and frustration for vulnerable job seekers relying on UIF support.
Labour Expert Weighs In on UIF Website Issue
Legal Director at Strata-g Labour Solutions, Advocate Tertius Wessels, described the situation as deeply concerning.
“I must admit, it is mind-boggling to think that the situation is actually being allowed,” Wessels said. “We’ve got desperate people simply trying to get access to benefits to which they have contributed for years on end.”
He questioned why UIF officials and those responsible for the online systems has not taken basic steps to redirect users or place clear notices on the outdated platform.
“This is all something that could be so easily resolved,” he added. “Nobody has ever thought to simply stop and put up a sign or something on the old website that just says, stop, we’ve moved, here’s the new details.”
Wessels said the issue highlights serious concerns around communication, accountability, and service delivery within the UIF system.
Listen to the full interview below:
VOC News
Photo: X/ @UIFBenefits
