PROVINCIAL NEWS - DA MPL Bobby Stevenson, the leader of the official opposition in the Eastern Cape, has raised alarm over the latest unemployment statistics. Released recently, the data reveals that the Eastern Cape lost 77 000 jobs between January and March this year. Stevenson emphasised the critical role employment plays in combatting social issues, stating, "The best way to stop a bullet is with a job."
He highlighted the efforts of the DA in Nelson Mandela Bay, where ward offices have been repurposed as opportunity centres to tackle unemployment, despite the party being in opposition.
Meanwhile, the Western Cape has maintained the lowest unemployment rate in South Africa at 21,4% in the first quarter of 2024, showcasing what can be achieved with more effective governance.
The unemployment inferno
"The inferno of unemployment continues to blaze its way through the Eastern Cape, decimating job opportunities in the province. The hopes and dreams of our people, particularly the youth, are simply going up in smoke!" Stevenson declared. He painted a grim picture of the province's job market, where temporary gains have been reversed, and unemployment has surged to unprecedented levels.
The official unemployment rate now stands at 42,4%, while the expanded rate has climbed to 49,1%. In areas outside the Nelson Mandela Bay and Buffalo City metros, the situation is even more dire, with 57% of people without work.
Call for dramatic intervention
Stevenson called for urgent and dramatic intervention to address the unemployment crisis in the Eastern Cape. "The Eastern Cape deserves a rising tide of hope, rather than a rising tide of unemployment," he asserted. He outlined a comprehensive plan to rescue the province and put out the fires of unemployment:
- Fixing the broken road network - Improving the infrastructure to facilitate better connectivity and economic activities.
- Restoring reliable water and energy supply
- Ensuring consistent and dependable basic services to attract and retain businesses.
- Ending cadre deployment - Appointing qualified individuals to key positions based on merit rather than political connections.
- Reducing crime - Utilising technology and other measures to create a safer environment for investment and economic growth.
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