South Africa’s Unemployment rate rose in the first quarter of 2024, official data showed on Tuesday, in a worrying sign for the government weeks before the closest election in decades.
Statistics show that rate rose to 32.9% in the first quarter, a 0.8 percentage point increase from the previous quarter, according to reports. The number of unemployed individuals grew by 330,000 to 8.2 million.
Jerrymusa.com reports that with national and provincial elections approaching on May 29, high unemployment remains a pressing political issue.
Frustration For The Youths
“Young people, in particular, are frustrated by the lack of opportunities in Africa’s most industrialized economy. Youth unemployment climbed to 45.5% in the first quarter, a 1.3 percentage point increase from the previous quarter.”
The ruling African National Congress (ANC), in power since 1994, faces declining support amid allegations of corruption and mismanagement, as well as a sluggish economy.
The party is expected to fall below 50% of the vote for the first time in the May 29 general election, potentially forcing it to seek coalition partners to maintain power. The high unemployment rate has sparked protests and anti-foreigner sentiment.