About Us

Founded in 2013/14 in Piketberg by local workers and officially registered in May 2014, the Agricultural Food, Fishing, and Retail Industry Workers Union (AFRIWU) has grown into a trusted advocate for workers’ rights. What began as a grassroots effort to address workplace challenges has evolved into a strong and influential union representing employees across agriculture, food processing, fishing, retail, wholesale, hospitality and the cleaning sector.


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 2014 AFRIWU has grown into a trusted voice for workers all over South Africa.


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.


Our Vision

At AFRIWU, our vision is to cultivate a just and empowered workforce, ensuring that every worker enjoys the benefits of fair wages, safe working conditions, and economic opportunities that guarantee a stable and prosperous future.


We are committed to becoming a leading advocate for labour rights, championing the principles of dignity, respect, and social justice across a diverse range of sectors, including agriculture, food processing, fishing, retail, wholesale, hospitality and cleaning. Our aspiration is to drive change through robust leadership, ethical advocacy, and strategic community investment, enhancing our national presence in the labour movement.


We strive to ensure that all workers, particularly those in vulnerable and marginalized industries, receive the comprehensive support, essential resources, and strong representation they truly deserve. At AFRIWU, we firmly believe that organized labour serves as a powerful catalyst for meaningful and transformative change.


Our dedication lies in creating a future where workers not only flourish in their jobs but also thrive within their communities, enriching their lives and contributing to a more equitable society for all.

Our Mission , Our Values, Our Passion 

Our Mission

AFRIWU is dedicated to protecting and empowering workers by advocating for fair labour practices, equitable wages, and safe working conditions. We are committed to fostering economic and social justice, ensuring that all workers have a voice in shaping their workplace environments and securing a dignified livelihood.


Our Values

At the heart of AFRIWU is a foundation built on trust, respect, and solidarity. We believe in ethical leadership, transparency, and the continuous development of our members. Beyond workplace representation, we uphold our social responsibility by investing in our communities, supporting sports and cultural organizations, and assisting workers during times of need. 

Our Passion

At AFRIWU, we champion the rights and dignity of workers across industries, committed to fairness and social justice. We empower workers with a voice and invest in their communities through social initiatives, sports, and cultural programs. Our mission includes creating economic opportunities and fostering education and leadership development for a future built on dignity and respect in all workplaces.

Our People