# COSATU and the Federation of Unions of South Africa, FEDUSA, are escalating their campaign against a 9.5-percent Government Employees Medical Scheme contribution increase and wipes out recent salary gains. The organisations warn this will push public servants into financial distress amid a rising cost of living. The unions say GEMS has ignored demands for a reversal of the 2026 hike. The unions will intensify action and are prepared for mass protest if talks fail.
COSATU and FEDUSA escalate fight over GEMS hike