UASA Media Release: 11 August 2026
Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
UASA is deeply concerned about the continued deterioration of South Africa’s employment landscape following the latest labour market data, which shows that the number of unemployed South Africans has increased by 345,000, bringing the total to approximately 8.5 million people.
According to Statistics South Africa’s Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS), the official unemployment rate increased by 0.9 percentage points, from 32.7% in the first quarter to 33.6% in the second quarter of the year. This means that more than one in three working-age South Africans who are actively seeking employment remain unable to find work.
The increase in unemployment is primarily attributed to ongoing job losses in key sectors, including manufacturing and government, while a growing number of people continue to enter an already constrained labour market.
The QLFS also indicates that total employment declined by 16,000 during the quarter, reducing the number of employed South Africans to 16.7 million. UASA views these developments with serious concern, particularly against the backdrop of a fragile economic environment characterised by rising fuel prices, inflationary pressures, and increasing operating costs for businesses.
These economic challenges place significant strain on employers and may lead to further job losses as companies, especially within the manufacturing sector, struggle to remain sustainable amid escalating costs.
The latest unemployment figures come at a time when businesses and households are already facing considerable financial pressure. With the cost of living continuing to rise and local government elections scheduled for November, unemployment and economic hardship remain among the country’s most pressing socio-economic challenges.
South Africa urgently requires targeted policy interventions that support economic growth, protect existing jobs, provide relief to struggling industries, and create an environment conducive to sustainable and meaningful employment creation.
For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview,contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.