UASA Media Release: 31 March 2026
Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
Despite ongoing economic challenges and an uncertain outlook for South Africa, UASA welcomes the positive news of a decrease in the unemployment rate.
Stats SA announced today that total employment increased by 18 000 or 0,2% quarter-on-quarter, from 10 533 000 to 10 551 000 in the last quarter of 2025.
This increase is attributed to growth in trade and business services, while employment in the electricity sector remained stable. However, key industries such as construction, manufacturing, community services, transport, and mining experienced declines in employment.
Although recent employment gains are encouraging, the year-on-year decrease of 102 000 jobs, or -1.0%, between December 2024 and December 2025 is concerning. This decline highlights the severity of our economic challenges. With rising fuel prices increasing operational costs, it is increasingly difficult for companies to create new jobs.
Job seekers also face significant challenges, as high transport and job search costs persist amid limited employment opportunities.
UASA urges the government to implement effective interventions to reduce unemployment and support companies, stakeholders and business owners in creating jobs. If government efforts fall short, greater reliance on the private sector will be necessary to support South Africans.
Workers face daily uncertainty as companies close, often with insufficient notice before Section 189A announcements. Recent closures in the mining sector, such as Ekapa, have resulted in hundreds of skilled workers joining the unemployment pool.
Comprehensive plans and immediate action are needed to address these challenges. Without decisive measures, the situation will continue to deteriorate.
Temporary measures, such as the recent reduction of the fuel levy, are not sufficient to address long-term challenges. Sustainable solutions are required to resolve these persistent issues. We risk further job losses and a weak economy, and if we don’t take action, we will not survive this turmoil.
For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview, contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.