New data from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) reveals a worrying increase in unemployment, with the official rate climbing to 32.9% in the first quarter of this year—up from 31.9% in late 2023.

The expanded unemployment rate, which includes discouraged job seekers, rose to 43.1%, reflecting an additional 237,000 unemployed people, bringing the total to 8.2 million. The hardest-hit sectors include private households, trade, and mining.

COSATU spokesperson Zanele Sabela expressed concern, particularly over the disproportionate impact on Black women and youth. Among those aged 15–34, unemployment stands at 46.1% (official rate) and over 72% (expanded definition). Sabela highlighted systemic failures, including skills mismatches and stagnant economic growth, urging better public employment programs.

“This is a crisis,” Sabela said, criticizing the lack of progress in addressing labor market inequalities. With youth unemployment at alarming levels, calls for urgent economic reforms and targeted job creation initiatives grow louder.