Deputy President Paul Mashatile has raised concerns about South Africa’s high unemployment rate, highlighting its impact on millions of people and the urgent need for measures to protect jobs and promote economic inclusion.
The country’s 33.6% unemployment rate was a key focus of Mashatile’s keynote address at the 8th National Congress of the Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA), held in Kempton Park.
He noted that unemployment affects approximately 8.5 million South Africans, many of whom face desperate circumstances and are excluded from meaningful participation in the economy.
Mashatile also urged public- and private-sector organisations to treat retrenchments as a last resort.
“Retrenchments should never be treated as an unavoidable side effect of corporate restructuring. Instead, engagements between the government, employers and unions must be conducted in good faith before any retrenchment notices are issued,” he said.
The Deputy President further warned that failure to comply with progressive labour legislation undermines efforts to advance transformation in the workplace.
“Formal compliance with legislation is no longer enough. Employers must actively address unequal recruitment practices and pay disparities. I also urge unions to monitor employment equity plans,” Mashatile added.
In conclusion, he outlined the government’s plans to advance industrial reforms, ensure a stable electricity supply, improve freight logistics, increase infrastructure investment and expand the Labour Activation Programme.
These measures, he indicated, form part of broader efforts to strengthen the economy, promote job creation and address the country’s persistent unemployment challenge.
