Unemployment

South Africa’s official unemployment rate increased slightly during the first quarter of 2026, according to the latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) released by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA).

The Department of Social Development has called for urgent and coordinated action to tackle South Africa’s youth unemployment crisis, urging all sectors to work together to create opportunities for young people.

South Africa’s official unemployment rate declined by 0.5 percentage points, falling from 31.9% in the third quarter (Q3) of 2025 to 31.4% in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2025.

The official unemployment rate has decreased for the latest quarter, with 7 provinces showing an increase in employment. The growth was led by the Western Cape which recorded 70,000 additional jobs, and KZN with an additional 54,000 jobs. 

The latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) from Statistics South Africa reveals a positive shift in the country’s job market. The national unemployment rate has decreased to 31.9% while youth unemployment also saw a decline in the fourth quarter.

South Africa faces a severe youth unemployment crisis, with nearly half of the country's young people out of work. To tackle this, several initiatives are being implemented.

Youth unemployment is a major challenge in South Africa, but the government is taking action to address it. During his 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a R300 million Jobs Boost Fund aimed at creating employment opportunities for young people.

Statistics South Africa has released the latest unemployment figures, showing a decrease in the unemployment rate for the third quarter of 2024.

Millions of young people in South Africa are facing an escalating unemployment crisis, prompting urgent calls for action. The Minister of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has emphasized the need for innovative and aggressive strategies to address the issue.

There are millions of unemployed people living in South Africa. While government interventions have helped combat unemployment, it is simply not enough. 

Overcoming a significant challenge, South Africa's Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI) is making a positive difference in youth unemployment. Launched in 2019, the initiative aims to create sustainable work opportunities for young people aged 15 to 35. This age group faces a national unemployment rate nearly double the overall average.

As South Africa marks Youth Month, the country grapples with a staggering youth unemployment rate, with approximately 45% of individuals aged between 15 and 34 jobless. Amidst these challenge, all eyes will be on the new administration and its plans to tackle youth unemployment. 

South Africa's latest unemployment figures paint a complex picture. While the overall unemployment rate edged slightly higher, the number of employed people actually grew. However, a concerning trend is emerging as youth unemployment is on the rise.

Knowing which jobs have vacancy rates and competitive salaries can guide graduates to a fulfilling and lucrative career. The Higher Education Department has published the most in demand jobs in South Africa. 

South Africa's job market showed some mixed signals in the final quarter of 2023, with total employment declining but wages and earnings increasing. This was detailed in Statistics South Africa's latest release.

The number of unemployed people living in South Africa increased in the final three months of the year. This was revealed by Statistics South Africa earlier this week. 

While South Africa's rate unemployment remains a major cause for concern, slight improvement in employment was recorded in the third quarter of 2023. The unemployment rate has also declined. 

Recent data has revealed that the country’s second quarter unemployment rate fell to its lowest level since the first quarter of 2021. However, more work needs to be done to ensure substantial progress as unemployment remains sky high.

South Africa’s official unemployment rate saw a gradual decline during the last few months of 2022. Studies have suggested that employment and job creation is on an upward trend in the country.

While South Africa’s unemployment rate fell slightly in the fourth quarter, reaching the lowest level in two years, many have expressed that more needs to be done to adequately address joblessness in the country.