Job losses could drive 'civil instability'

THE South African economy is bleeding jobs at an alarming rate and what was once a crisis is turning into an unemployement emergency with experts warning of resultant civil instability.

- TRACY-LYNN RUITERS [e-mail]

Nearly 75 000 formal sector jobs lost in the first quarter of 2025 alone, and 95 000 compared to the same time last year, according to Stats SA. Key sectors like trade, mining, construction, and community services were hardest hit, with only manufacturing showing slight growth.

The figures have prompted alarm from economists, labour unions, and mental health experts, who warn that without urgent reform, the country faces entrenched unemployment and broader social fallout.

Slow economic growth, policy uncertainty, skills mismatches, and restrictive labour regulations are all seen as major contributors.

Abigail Moyo, spokesperson for the trade union UASA, said the latest figures are alarming.