MTHATHA- A glimmer of hope in the Eastern Cape’s job market! As of August 2024 the unemployment rate in the province dipped to 41% a slight decrease from the 42.4% recorded in the first quarter of 2024.
This downward trend may seem modest but it’s a step in the right direction for a province that’s struggled with high unemployment rates.
Minister of Department of Employment and Labour(DEL) Nomakhosazana Meth launched the Eastern Cape leg of the Labour Activation Programme(LAP) and hosted a Jobs and Career Fair at the Mthatha Stadium on Friday, 28 February 2025.
The LAP Programme aims to position DEL as a key driver of job creation by supporting businesses in creating employment initiatives, re-skilling youth and providing training through Skills Programmes, Learnerships and apprenticeships. The programme seeks to alleviate poverty by connecting employers with work seekers, ensuring access to both job and learning opportunities.
The Department and its entities will offer services to assist clients with UIF claims, injury on duty and disease claims and provide information on the Basic Conditions of Employment Act and National Minimum Wage Act.
“After this meeting, the administration will sit down with the appointed partners to agree on the minimum requirements for those who must be employed,” said Minister Meth.
Furthermore, the launch and Jobs and Career Fair come at a time when many young people in the Eastern Cape are struggling to find employment.
Lukhanyo Mdwayi, an unemployed resident of Mqanduli who holds a Diploma in Management from Walter Sisulu University expressed his hopes that the Eastern Cape government will create more job opportunities for youth. “I have been unemployed for two years and I want the Eastern Cape government to employ more youth,” said Mdwayi.
As the launch took place under King Sabata Dalidyebo Municipality Executive Mayor Cllr Nyaniso Nelani was in attendance and had this to say, “It will make a difference in employment and job creation because it is being hosted in King Sabatha Dalindyebo municipality.”
On the day Minister Meth handed over an amount of R922 million to 12 service providers that will create 23 000 jobs across the province.
Five sectors that have been chosen:
- Waste programmes
- Ocean’s economy
- Green economy
- Water engeenering
Photograph: supplied
Nontando Mbonwa & Ziphelele Nompula 06 March 2025
