It was initially named the United Association of South Africa, and while its membership was focused in mining, it accepted workers in all industries.

[2] In 2002, the union absorbed SALSTAFF, and this took its membership to 65,000, making it easily FEDUSA's largest affiliate.

Membership peaked at 110,000 in 2004, and has since slowly declined, in line with employment in the mining industry.

[3]: 490 UASA also plays an important role in the international labour arena, joining hands with various international federations that promote global solidarity among workers of the world in their struggle against the negative effects of globalisation.

This article related to a South African trade union is a stub.