South Africa’s unemployment rate has risen to 32.9% in the first quarter of 2025, marking a 1 percentage point increase from the previous quarter, according to the latest data from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA). The figures reveal that 16.8 million South Africans are now employed, down from 17.1 million in late 2024.
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) has expressed deep concern over the worsening job crisis, calling for urgent government intervention. Meanwhile, the North West Province has emerged as the hardest-hit region, with its expanded unemployment rate—which includes discouraged job seekers—reaching a staggering 56%, while the official rate stands at just over 40%.
A Daily Struggle for Survival in Mahikeng
SABC News reporter Mahikeng CBD, where unemployed workers gather daily along Mandela Drive, hoping for odd jobs such as gardening, car washing, or any temporary work to survive.
One unemployed worker shared his struggles: “We come here every morning, but sometimes no one hires us. There are months when we get nothing.”
Government Under Pressure to Act
With millions of South Africans struggling to find work, pressure is mounting on policymakers to address structural economic challenges, including sluggish growth and limited job creation.
COSATU has urged immediate measures, including public employment programs and support for small businesses, to curb the crisis.
As the nation grapples with rising joblessness, the human toll of unemployment continues to unfold in towns like Mahikeng, where hope for steady work remains out of reach for many.
