Addressing Unemployment in Mhluzi Township

Tumelo Mashiloane

Youth unemployment is a significant crisis in Mhluzi, robbing young people of their talents, hopes, and dreams. In this industrial township, which hosts steel, retail, and various other companies, the youth unemployment rate has been on the rise for five years. In the last 24 months, especially since the onset of COVID-19, the situation has become even more dire. 

Young individuals with matric and N-6 diplomas are spending three to five years sending out CVs without receiving any responses. This frustration has driven some into gangs, drugs, and alcohol. Lasmath Makhubedu states that the youth are not lazy; rather, “the problem is our municipality’s neglect of young people”. It is painful to eat, sleep, and then wake up with nothing to do. Even Shoprite does nothing to help.” Kaogelo Malomane shares that he has given up searching for a job because it feels like everything is based on nepotism and corruption. As a result, many youth spend their days idly sitting on the corners of townships.

The municipality and local companies have failed to implement local hiring policies or establish meaningful programs that connect young people’s skills to available jobs. Parents also struggle, as they cannot afford to send their children for further studies.

We are calling for a dialogue between the Steve Tshwete Municipality, local companies, and the youth to directly address their concerns. We need a mandatory local hiring policy for entry-level positions, as well as the establishment of a Youth Job Desk at the municipality to link young people to opportunities and training.

The Steve Tshwete Municipality and all surrounding companies must act urgently. They should invest in skills development, internships, and local procurement so that youth can build their futures instead of turning to gangs.