THE South African government is motivated to create more jobs.
This was said by Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni during a media briefing in Tshwane on Thursday, 29 February, on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday, 28 February.
Reacting to the recent Statistics South Africa report on the country’s unemployment rate in the fourth quarter of 2023 which showed a slight increase to 32.1% from 31.9%, the minister said while the economy continues to create jobs, it's not at the level that government aims to achieve in order to address the challenge of unemployment.
“The Quarterly Labour Force Survey showed that informal sector employment increased by 124 000, finance by 128 000 jobs, transport by 57 000, mining by 37 000 jobs and private households by 18 000 jobs. Cabinet called on all sectors to support the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan, which is helping to provide work and livelihood opportunities to millions of South Africans,” she said.
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Speaking on government’s matters, she said Cabinet has welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s proclamation of Wednesday, 29 May 2024 as the date for the general elections.
Ntshavheni called on everyone, especially the youth, to exercise their right to vote.
“This year’s elections coincide with the celebration of 30 Years of Freedom, which is a significant milestone for South Africa as it provides us with the opportunity to reflect on our successes and also look for solutions to address our surmountable challenges,” she said.
On crime combating, Ntshavheni said Cabinet commends the South African Police Service for their tireless work, which has led to the arrest of seven suspects in connection with the murder of Kiernan 'AKA' Forbes and his friend Tebello 'Tibz' Motsoane.
She said the arrests are as a result of months of painstaking police work.
