The Minister for the Department of Employment and Labour, Nomakhosazana Meth, said that as part of the government, they are committed to bringing services closer to the people.
Meth was delivering a keynote address during the Employer Seminar held on Thursday, 26 March at the Goldfields Casino in Welkom, Free State.
She said sustainable economic growth and meaningful job creation will not be achieved by government alone, but require a shared effort between the state, business, labour, and communities.
Meth stated that the economic realities confronting the Free State demand urgency. While the province has made measurable progress in reducing poverty, declining from 52.2% in 2006 to 34.4% in 2023, unemployment remains persistently high, now standing at 37.2%.
“Even more concerning is the situation of young people. In this province, 33% of youth between the ages of 15 and 24 are not in employment, education, or training. This is not simply a labour market challenge — it is a structural crisis that threatens long-term social and economic stability.” Meth shared.
The Free State remains a critical agricultural hub for the country. It produces approximately 48.2% of South Africa’s maize, 47.4% of soya beans, 40% of potatoes, and an overwhelming 90% of cherries.
Minister Meth made a call to employers who attended the seminar in droves to play an active role in revitalising the local economy. Investment in agro-processing, mining rehabilitation, manufacturing, and energy must translate into tangible opportunities for local communities.
“The future of this province is inseparable from the future of its young people. The Free State has a youthful population, with 26.4% under the age of 15, and a growing cohort of young people entering the labour market.” Meth stated.
According to the Minister, employers have a critical responsibility to bridge this gap by expanding opportunities for learnerships, apprenticeships, and workplace experience, and by working closely with TVET colleges and higher education institutions to align skills with economic demand.
The Department is intensifying its efforts through programmes such as the Labour Activation Programme, while strengthening the Unemployment Insurance Fund to better support both workers and employers. Including working to improve the efficiency and accessibility of labour services.
“With over 1 million people in the Free State receiving social grants, the need to expand economic participation and reduce dependency is urgent. Supporting SMMEs, promoting local procurement, and opening value chains are essential steps toward building a more inclusive economy.” Meth added.
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