IMATU Bids Farewell to Its President After 35 Years of Dedicated Service To IMATU

IMATU recently hosted a memorable farewell in honour of our esteemed President, Mr Keith Swanepoel, at the Kopanong Hotel and Conference Centre, Benoni.

The event marked a fitting tribute to a leader who has served IMATU with unwavering dedication for over 35 years in various capacities, ahead of his retirement from the City of Johannesburg on 31 July 2025.

The evening brought together members of IMATU’s National Executive Council, Johannesburg Regional Committee members and Full-Time Shop Stewards, the General Secretary, Regional Managers, staff from the National Office and Johannesburg Regional Office, distinguished guests, and strategic partners.

Heartfelt messages of support were delivered by the Deputy General Secretary of the SALGBC, Ms Nanicky Hlangwani, the Senior Advisor: Labour Relations from SALGA, Mr Johan van Zyl, the Chief Executive Officer of the LGSETA, Mr Ineeleng Molete, and NEC Member for the Johannesburg Region, Ms Phumelelo Seepi.

This was followed by addresses from the Deputy President of IMATU, Ms Queen Mbatha, and a moving tribute by the General Secretary, Mr Johan Koen, culminating in a warm and inspiring address from Mr Swanepoel.

Mr Swanepoel is known for his famous saying: “… everyone has a shelf life, and everybody has a sell-by date.” As we close the book on a magnificent career in local government and service to IMATU and its members, we reflect on Keith’s enduring legacy.

In 1995, Keith was part of the committee that negotiated the amalgamation agreement between the five unions that formed IMATU. In 1997, he began representing the Johannesburg Region on the National Executive Council. Keith also served on the committee that drafted IMATU’s Constitution — a document that remains in force today.

He made the Presidential Tours his own, spending many nights away from home, always committed to serving IMATU members. His guiding principle: “We must always put members first.”

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Keith for his dedication, commitment, and loyalty to IMATU and our members.

Thank you, Keith. Enjoy your well-deserved retirement!