Our Story

The Agricultural Food, Fishing, and Retail Industry Workers Union (AFRIWU) is a dedicated trade union committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of workers across multiple sectors. Since its establishment in Piketberg in 2013/14 and official registration in May 2014, AFRIWU has grown into a trusted voice for workers in agriculture, food processing, fishing, retail, wholesale, and the cleaning sector.


With a strong presence in towns across the Western Cape, AFRIWU prioritizes worker empowerment, fair labour practices, and sustainable economic opportunities. Our mission is not only to represent workers in the workplace but also to invest in the communities where they live. Through social responsibility initiatives, we support sports and cultural organizations and provide assistance to workers facing hardship.


Rooted in trust, respect, and a passion for worker advocacy, AFRIWU continues to expand its influence. Over the next two years, we aim to establish a national footprint, strategically assessing where our representation is most needed.


At AFRIWU, we believe in the power of organized labour to drive meaningful change. Through strong leadership, continuous capacity building, and unwavering dedication, we remain committed to protecting workers’ rights and improving livelihoods.


Join us as we build a stronger, more just future for all workers across South Africa.


Discover the AFRIWU Story

Message from the General Secretary 

Mr Gafieldien Benjamin  


The Agricultural Food Fishing and Retail Industry Workers Union (AFRIWU) recently celebrated its 10-year anniversary since its founding in Piketberg in 2013/14. Officially registered in May 2014, AFRIWU has grown into a leading union representing workers in the agricultural, food processing, fishing, retail, wholesale, and cleaning sectors, with its strongest presence in agriculture.


With members across various Western Cape towns, AFRIWU has been a voice for workers, advocating for their rights and addressing industry challenges. At the milestone celebration, founding members reflected on the union’s journey, with three of the original office bearers—General Secretary Gafieldien Benjamin, Treasurer Anneline Williams, and 1st Deputy President Mary Marcus—still serving in leadership roles. Honorable Mzwanele Nyhontso, Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, was the keynote speaker, emphasizing the importance of land ownership, distribution, and food security for workers.


As the keynote guest speaker at this event, they had the Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Honorable Mzwanele Nyhontso, in attendance who addressed the gathering of workers on the importance of connecting workers with the land through ownership and control and towards sustainable projects. He reminded them of the importance of land distribution and food security through working the land. 


Aside from representing workers and it's members at workplaces, AFRIWU is also acting socially responsible by ploughing back in areas where it's members live. We sponsor certain sports and cultural organizations and also assist individual workers in times of hardship and disaster. 

This union will continue to grow with the respect and trust amongst its leadership, the passion that it has for workers and working class communities and the continuous capacity building and skilling of its representatives. 




LATEST NEWS !!!

Wolseley RFC - AFRIWU steps up

On behalf of Wolseley RFC, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to AfriWU for sponsoring our brand-new first-team rugby kit and jerseys.

Your generous support has already inspired greatness. Today, proudly donning the new kit, our boys delivered a dominant performance on home ground, defeating Evergreens RFC 24–3 and securing a bonus point against Paarl Rugby Club.

This kit represents more than just our uniform—it embodies the values of pride, honor, discipline, courage, and integrity that both Wolseley RFC and AfriWU uphold. We are committed to showcasing these values every time we step onto the field.

Thank you, AfriWU, for your unwavering support of our team and community.

#WolseleyRFC #AfriWU #RugbyKit #JerseysWithPride #Teamwork #DisciplineCourageIntegrity —with Johannes Noble and 7 others.

"Empowering Workers Across South Africa's Diverse Industries"

As AFRIWU continues to grow, we represent various sectors across the Western Cape with plans to expand our national reach within the next two years.


By strategically assessing demand and viability, we aim to extend our advocacy to a wider range of workers throughout South Africa. Our vision is to establish a future where all workers, particularly those in agriculture and related industries, have access to land ownership, sustainable opportunities, and long-term job security.


Our focus primarily lies in the agriculture, food processing, fishing, retail, cleaning, and hospitality sectors.

Agricultural Food Sector

The Western Cape is a key agricultural hub in South Africa, known for its diverse produce, including wine grapes, citrus fruits, and deciduous fruits. The region benefits from a Mediterranean climate and advanced farming techniques, making it a leading exporter of agricultural goods. Challenges include water scarcity and climate change, which impact long-term sustainability.

Fishing Sector

The Western Cape is South Africa’s hub for commercial fishing, supported by major ports like Cape Town and Saldanha Bay. The industry thrives with key catches such as hake, snoek, and rock lobster, essential for both exports and local markets. However, challenges like overfishing and regulatory compliance threaten sustainability, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts to promote responsible fishing practices.

Retail Sector

The country has a dynamic retail sector, fueled by strong tourism, a growing middle class, and urban centers like Cape Town. Shopping malls, supermarkets, and independent retailers cater to a diverse consumer base, with e-commerce gaining traction. Economic pressures, such as inflation and shifting consumer spending, continue to shape the industry

Cleaning sector

The cleaning sector in the Western Cape plays a crucial role in maintaining hygiene standards across commercial, industrial, and residential spaces. Demand is driven by tourism, corporate offices, and healthcare facilities, with an increasing focus on eco-friendly cleaning solutions. However, rising labour costs and regulatory compliance pose challenges for service providers

Hospitality Sector

The Western Cape's hospitality sector is a major contributor to the economy, driven by international and domestic tourism, particularly in Cape Town and the Winelands. Luxury hotels, boutique lodges, and short-term rentals thrive alongside a vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene. While the sector benefits from scenic attractions and cultural heritage, challenges such as seasonality and economic fluctuations impact long-term stability.

Food Processing Sector

The Western Cape's food processing sector is a vital link between its rich agricultural output and both local and international markets. The industry specializes in wine production, dairy, fruit canning, and seafood processing, benefiting from modern infrastructure and global trade access. Despite its strong growth, challenges such as rising production costs, supply chain disruptions, and energy shortages affect long-term sustainability.

Overview Of Our Services 

Explore our full range of services to discover how we can tailor our expertise to meet your unique business needs.

Worker Representation & Advocacy

Worker Representation & Advocacy

Membership Benefits & Support

Legal Support & Dispute Resolution

Social Responsibility & Community Development

Expansion & Future Growth

Training & Capacity Building

Our Social Stand 

Aside from representing workers and its members in the workplace, AFRIWU also demonstrates social responsibility by giving back to the communities where its members reside. We sponsor various sports and cultural organizations and provide assistance to individual workers during times of hardship and disaster.

This union is poised for continued growth, fueled by the respect and trust established among its leadership, the commitment to workers and working-class communities, and the ongoing capacity building and skill development of its representatives.

Each project reflects our dedication to excellence and sustainable growth.

Get In Touch

At AFRIWU, we believe in the power of collaboration and innovation to drive positive change. Let's work together to make a difference and shape a brighter future.

Lets get in touch

AFRIWU - The Agricultural Food, Fishing, and Retail Industry Workers Union