Catherwood LibraryILR School

In South Africa's first national work stoppage in 18 years, members of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) are protesting about both pay and living conditions in the industry. The stoppage could cost about $12m in lost revenue a day, analysts estimate. South Africa is the world's biggest producer of bullion - accounting for around 15% gold output - and the sector accounts for approximately 8% of the country's gross domestic product.