Statistics South Africa reports a significant increase in youth unemployment. In 2015, half of citizens aged 15-24 were unemployed. By 2025, this figure has risen to 62.4%.
The North West province recorded a youth unemployment rate of 58.8% in the first three months of 2025. Only 43.0% of young people aged 15 to 34 were active in the labour market. The Eastern Cape faces a similarly dire situation.
The Eastern Cape has an unemployment rate of 54.3%. Fewer than four in ten young people are either employed or looking for work. BPESA is in discussions for revised industry incentives to drive economic upliftment.