This is according to the 2nd Quarter Labour Force Survey released by Stats SA on Wednesday (13/8). Despite a slight improvement of 0.3% from the previous quarter and 1.2% compared with a year ago, the official unemployment rate remains alarmingly high at 40.1%.

The expanded unemployment rate, which includes those discouraged from seeking work, sits at a staggering 54.7%. More than 1.5 million residents are without jobs.

“Our absorption rate of 31.6% is the lowest in the country, and labour force participation is among the lowest nationally at 52.7%,” said DA MPL Freddy Sonakile. “These figures underscore the province’s persistent economic challenges, which continue to leave a significant portion of the population without viable employment opportunities.”

Sonakile recalled the DA march to the Office of the Premier on 4 July, where they handed over a memorandum calling for urgent action. It also called for a provincial unemployment crisis to be declared, the establishment of a premier-led youth employment war room, a turnaround jobs plan with measurable targets, improved infrastructure to spur growth, and quarterly reports on investment and job creation.

“We understand job creation is primarily driven by the private sector,” Sonakile said, “but it remains the essential role of government to establish conducive environments and implement strategic plans that enable and accelerate sustainable job growth.”

In his second state of the province address, Premier Lazarus Mokgosi outlined job creation initiatives aimed at improving the situation, including expanding the expanded public works programme, increasing community health workers, and activating other labour-focused programmes.

Despite these efforts, opposition parties have raised concerns over the effectiveness and sustainability of such public employment opportunities.

Sonakile expressed frustration at the lack of response from Mokgosi.

“One month later, there has been no response (from the premier). There is currently no jobs crisis plan, as he ignores memorandums and proposals to address this challenge.

“Jobs are not created by cutting ribbons, hosting roadshows, or attending every ceremonial opening. These statistics indicate a province on autopilot, with no urgency for economic reforms.”

The DA has formally requested the portfolio committee responsible for oversight of the premier to place the matter high on its agenda during engagements with Mokgosi. Sonakile said Mokgosi’s continued silence is a betrayal of North West residents.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cvs