/ MEDIA STATEMENT / The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Employment and Labour, Mr Boyce Maneli, has noted and welcomed the reported reduction in unemployment figures. Statistics South Africa released quarterly labour force surveys detailing information across various sectors of the economy and in each province, which revealed that there was a 1.4 percentage point reduction in unemployment for the third quarter of 2024.
 
The report reflects current labour market conditions in South Africa, which are crucial for shaping policy and addressing socio-economic challenges. Mr Maneli said the committee welcomed the report but more still needs to be done.
 
“The economy is strictly confined and has been for some time now. We accept that unemployment is the worst challenge that the government has battled for some time now. This is welcome news in the context fiscal constraints that the economy is operated on,” Mr Maneli said.

He noted the decrease in employment available in private households by 32 000 jobs. “This reminds us of the vulnerability of domestic and household workers, a group that must remain a priority in our labour protection efforts,” added Mr Maneli.

Provincial Employment Overview Employment gains were seen in seven provinces, with the Eastern Cape leading in terms of employment numbers, at 83 000 in the quarter.

“The work is far from complete. Disparities in employment rates across age groups, education levels and provinces indicate that targeted interventions are needed to ensure equitable access to opportunities for all South Africans,” emphasised Mr Maneli.

Issued by the Parliamentary Communications Services on behalf of the chairperson of the portfolio committee on Employment and Labour, Boyce Maneli