KZN Factory Worker Nokhanji Cele Earns R300 a Week Despite Night Shifts and Heavy Labour
- Nokhanji Cele, a factory worker from Mlamlankunzi Village in KwaZulu-Natal, opened up about her working conditions and weekly wages
- Cele revealed she earns R300 every Friday for duties that include cleaning, animal care, overtime, and late-night shifts
- Her story surfaced amid South Africa's ongoing anti-illegal immigration protests, reigniting debate about low wages for local workers
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Source: Getty Images
KWAZULU-NATAL — A factory worker from Mlamlankunzi Village in KwaZulu-Natal has spoken out about her working conditions and weekly wage of R300, saying the pay does not reflect the full scope of her duties.
According to Eyewitness News, Nokhanji Cele shared her account with Eyewitness News in a video posted on 7 August 2026, which drew attention against the backdrop of South Africa's ongoing anti-illegal immigration protests, with many South Africans debating whether local workers are receiving fair compensation.
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Cele works at a factory where her responsibilities include cleaning premises, caring for animals such as dogs and cats, maintaining the site, and carrying out physical labour. Her shift does not always end at a standard hour — she is frequently required to stay late or report for night duties when additional staff are needed on-site.
Despite performing what she described as a wide range of demanding tasks, her take-home pay remains R300 per week, collected every Friday. Cele said the amount falls short of what she believes the work warrants, particularly given the irregular hours and physical demands involved.
Cele calls for better pay
Speaking candidly, Cele said she continues to show up because employment opportunities in her area are limited. She expressed hope that her wages would be increased to better reflect the nature of her work, including the overtime and night shifts that form a regular part of her schedule. She stopped short of threatening to leave her position, but made clear that she regards her current compensation as inadequate for the responsibilities placed on her.
Watch Nokhanji Cele speak about her wages and working conditions:
Cele's account has emerged at a sensitive moment nationally. South Africa's anti-illegal immigration protests, which reached a peak on 30 June 2025, have kept questions of local employment and fair wages at the forefront of public discussion, with many South Africans arguing that citizens in low-income roles remain undervalued regardless of the immigration debate.
KZN factories face struggles
In a related article, Briefly News reported on the significant challenges faced by garment factory owners in KwaZulu-Natal following recent xenophobic protests. The impact of lost migrant workers threatens not only the operational stability of these factories but also raises critical concerns about the future of local employment opportunities.
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Source: Briefly News
