Movement for Democratic Change MP, Collin Gwiyo, has praised members of the South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu) in KwaZulu-Natal for refusing to off-load weapons from a Chinese ship, saying their action saved the lives of many Zimbabweans.

He was speaking during a seminar at the University of KwaZulu-Natal where a DVD of Zimbabwean police and military brutally assaulting innocent men, women and children was shown.

The DVD has reportedly been shown to President Thabo Mbeki.

The seminar was addressed by Elinor Sisulu, representing the Zimbabwe Coalition, Deprose Muchena of the Open Society Initiative for Southern Africa, and Gwiyo at the weekend.

The three applauded Satawu for its bravery in refusing to off-load the ship when it was docked in a South African harbour.

Gwiyo said all South Africans could play a role in changing the situation in Zimbabwe.

“What the labour union has done in South Africa in support of people in my country is amazing.

“It clearly shows that Zimbabwe was a home for all South Africans who fought against apartheid,” he said.

Gwiyo said he was moved by the many South Africans who had gone against President Mbeki by pronouncing clearly that there was a crisis in Zimbabwe.

Muchena said the crisis in Zimbabwe could affect the entire African continent if it was not addressed urgently.