Call for unity and dialogue to tackle to unemployment crisis

At its 30th Annual Summit, the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) reflected on three decades of social dialogue amid South Africa’s ongoing economic challenges, especially high unemployment.

The summit highlighted a stark unemployment rate of 33.2%, with women bearing a heavier burden at 35.9%.

Delivering a keynote address virtually, Deputy President Paul Mashatile stressed the continued relevance of former President Nelson Mandela’s earlier observation that democratic gains will remain “fragile and shallow“ without real improvements in people’s lives.

“When addressing the 4th Annual Summit, former President Nelson Mandela made the

following observation: ‘Foremost among our challenges is job creation’... It is concerning that, 26 years later, South Africa is still grappling with the same challenges as stated by former President Mandela,” he told the delegates who are gathered in Sandton.

The Deputy President highlighted potential job losses from the 30% United States tariffs on South African exports, which could impact the agriculture, automotive, manufacturing and mining sectors.

“I am aware that this forum does not directly create jobs but rather promotes an enabling environment through measures such as sector-specific interventions, SME support, skills development programmes, and employment initiatives.”

As social partners, he believes they can alter the path and trajectory of the nation by uniting in pursuit of a collective objective, motivated by shared values.

“As a nation, we must draw lessons from one another as we work to rejuvenate our economy, decrease unemployment, and foster inclusive growth.

“Therefore, the National Dialogue, a people-centred initiative, is crucial for addressing the frustrations and needs of ordinary South Africans. It aims to unite South Africans, heal past wounds, and chart a common path forward.”

In the next few months, he said, citizens should emerge with a compact and consensus on a South Africa they want beyond 2030, aligned with the vision of the Freedom Charter, which calls to establish a South Africa that belongs to everyone, Black and White.

He emphasised that achieving solidarity, equality, and sustainability remains a challenging but possible journey, requiring dedication, courage, and a shared vision beyond personal interests.

As the country forges ahead towards planning for the future, the country’s second-in-command has called on all South Africans to play a collective role in advancing inclusive economic growth and social equity.

He said he was confident that the NEDLAC 30-Year Project, which analysed achievements from 1994-2024, would help fast-track government programmes through its proposals.

“We must concentrate our efforts on promoting equality. This should entail the dismantling of systemic barriers that sustain discrimination and exclusion, thereby establishing equal opportunities for all.”

Through NEDLAC’s dialogue and engagements, the Deputy President said it has resulted in amendments to labour law and initiatives like the Presidential Employment Stimulus and the revised Employment Equity Act.

Shifting his focus to the Group of 20 (G20), he said through the engagement groups, South Africa is strengthening ties and expanding dialogue and called for continued partnership between government, business, labour, and community organisations to address persistent socio-economic challenges.

“Through solidarity, equality, and sustainability, we can build an economy that reflects the aspirations of all South Africans,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za