Calls are intensifying for a coordinated national response to youth unemployment after the country’s official unemployment rate increased in the first quarter of 2026. The latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey was released by Stats SA on Tuesday (12/5).

Youth unemployment remains one of the country’s biggest concerns. Nearly 46% of young people are now officially unemployed, while the expanded definition paints an even bleaker reality.

The figures have renewed calls for urgent intervention as experts warn that the economy is failing to absorb new entrants into the labour market, especially first-time job seekers.

“The latest unemployment figures clearly show not enough is being done to address the unemployment crisis in South Africa,” said Momentum Group Foundation youth employment and entrepreneurship specialist Nkosinathi Mahlangu. “Particularly among young people entering the labour market for the first time.

“We need to urgently align education, training, and workplace skills with the sectors that are creating opportunities, especially in digital services, infrastructure, energy, and entrepreneurship.

“Many young people are becoming discouraged and falling into the not in employment, education or training category because they are unable to access employment, training or further education opportunities.”

Unemployment increased in all the country’s provinces except KwaZulu-Natal, while the highest unemployment numbers were recorded in the North West and Eastern Cape.

The Free State’s unemployment rate of 37.8% was the second-highest in South Africa after the Eastern Cape. The DA said it is deeply concerned by the Free State’s unemployment rate, warning that rising living costs and continued job losses are worsening the economic pressure on residents.

The minister of employment and labour, Nomakhosazana Meth, also acknowledged the severity of the crisis following the release of the latest labour statistics.

“The Stats SA QLFS paints a sobering picture of the state of the labour market in our country,” said Meth. “Unemployment is not merely an economic statistic, but a social challenge affecting all and the future aspirations of young people.

“We therefore remain committed to building an economy that creates opportunities, reduces inequality, and restores hope to the people of South Africa.”

OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm

• Have a news tip to share? Phone or whatsapp the OFM News Hotline: 066 487 1427.