South Africa's unemployment rate has surged to 33.6% in Q2 2026, with 345,000 more people unemployed. This alarming trend has sparked urgent calls for economic reforms and a national jobs programme.

Geopolitical tensions and oil shocks deepen strain on key industries

As unemployment soars to 33.6%, 345,000 South Africans face job losses, raising concerns about the country's economic stability.

Youth unemployment jumps to 47.4% as 264,000 more young people join jobless ranks