GALLERY: Kasi roadside economy defies the odds

THE recent Stats SA figures showed a slight decrease in the unemployment rate, with Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni saying on Monday, 20 November, that the number has returned to those of pre-Covid-19.

Stats SA's third quarter Labour Force Survey reported the official unemployment rate to have decreased by 0,7 of a percentage point from 32,6% in the second quarter of 2023 to 31.% in the third quarter of 2023.

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Ntshavheni at a post-Cabinet briefing said: “All provinces but one has contributed to the 399 000 increase to the number of employed people to a total of 16,7 million people in employment in the third quarter, compared to 16,3 million in the second quarter of 2023.”

This lady who sells scones in JHB CBD, contributes positively to local communities by offering convenience, affordability, and a unique connection to the entrepreneurial spirit. Photo by Trevor Kunene

In a country with well more than 62 million citizens, the stats bring little comfort to those living below the poverty line.

Some have resorted to starting up informal businesses to alleviate poverty and unemployment. 

SNL24 photographer Trevor Kunene captured how some of the country’s citizens are making ends meet on the side of the road.

Whether it be food or tailor-made fashion, these street vendors have a booming economy:

Roadside dressmakers play one of the important role in serving the community. Photo by Trevor Kunene

Corner food tent situated in Orlando West near Phomolong Train Station in Soweto, is where people gather to get their breakfast or lunch. Photo by Trevor Kunene

This shoemaker business in Meadowlands, Soweto, is convenient in cases of emergency. Photo by Trevor Kunene

The roadside snacks and sweets businesses have been there for ages and mostly serve pupils who always buy on their way to school or home. Photo by Trevor Kunene

The pavement snacks stand serves those in need for an easy treat on the go. Photo by Trevor Kunene

Corner food tent situated in Orlando West near Phomolong train station in Soweto, is where people gather to get their breakfast or lunch. People always enjoy the food cooked on site and the fact that they do not have to travel distances to get their food, normally these stalls are nearer than the established restaurants. Photo by Trevor Kunene

The roadside cow head business (inyama yenhloko) has become the fastest growing food business where people -especially men - run to for food. The meat is prepared and cooked on site. Some customers don't even mind waiting for it to be ready when their cravings or hunger has striken. Photo by Trevor Kunene

A food stand along the corner of N12 Freeway and R558 road. Photo by Trevor Kunene

Ama kip-kip stand like this one in Florida near Main Reef Road is one of the small businesses that contribute positively to local communities by offering convenience, affordability, and a unique connection to the entrepreneurial spirit that defines each neighbourhood. Photo by Trevor Kunene

Roadside dressmakers play one of the important role in serving the community. Photo by Trevor Kunene

The secondhand shoe sale in JHB CBD is now a common sight.

Ama kip-kip stand like this one in Florida near Main Reef Road is one of the small businesses that contribute positively to local communities by offering convenience, affordability, and a unique connection to the entrepreneurial spirit that defines each neighbourhood. Photo by Trevor Kunene