South Africa hit by massive public sector strike

In South Africa more than a million workers are on strike today to demand higher wages and housing subsidies.

The protest will be seriously disruptive as public sector workers like teachers, nurses, immigration officers and customs officials are expected to take part in the action.

South Africa is no stranger to strikes and the unions have been threatening to take to the streets for weeks.

Dumisani Nkwamba speaks for the Public Service and Administration Ministry.

He expects management to keep the service disruptions to a minimum.

Patrick Craven speaks for the Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu).

He expects the strike will get overwhelming support from his members.

First broadcast 10 August 2010