The strike by construction workers at the Mbombela 2010 soccer stadium in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga entered its fifth day on Monday, the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) said.

Workers affiliated to the NUM downed tools on Wednesday last week demanding better pay and working conditions.

Spokesman Lesiba Seshoka said construction work had come to a halt after the construction companies and the workers' union failed to reach?an agreement on Friday.

Workers have demanded a transport allowance and a living-out allowance of R1,000 per month as well as an improved hourly rate.

South African construction firm Basil Read and French company Bouygues are the joint-venture partners leading the construction of the stadium that will serve as a host venue for the FIFA 2010 World Cup.