Unemployment in Limpopo reaches 'painful' level, says premier

Limpopo's unemployment rate is currently at 31.9%, and the majority of those without jobs are youth and women, says premier Phophi Ramathuba.

- Alex Japho Matlala

Ramathuba was speaking during her state of the province address at the Limpopo provincial legislature in Lebowakgomo yesterday.

She became the first female premier of the province in May 2023, after former premier Stanley Mathabatha was appointed deputy minister for land reform and rural development.

"In light of this, we commit ourselves to the pursuit of inclusive growth, job creation and the reduction of poverty while tackling the high cost of living as we build a capable, ethical and developmental state," Ramathuba said.

The most urgent task, she said, was to grow Limpopo's economy so that it creates jobs, reduces poverty and improves the lives of all South Africans.

"As we commemorate the 70 years of the Freedom Charter, we will reflect on this journey, while considering the landscape of our province, a tapestry woven with both challenges and triumphs," she said.