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The African National Congress (ANC) welcomed new labour statistics released by Statistics South Africa, showing a major improvement in the country’s employment outlook for the third quarter of 2025. The official unemployment rate fell to 31.9%, while the expanded rate dropped to 42.4%, signalling progress in job creation across the economy.
What Happened
Stats SA confirmed that the official unemployment rate decreased by 1.3%, with the expanded definition dropping by 0.6%. The ANC said the results show the impact of coordinated economic interventions and its 10-Point Plan aimed at boosting growth, creating jobs, and restoring public confidence.
During the quarter, more than 248,000 new jobs were created, pushing total employment above 17.1 million, the highest level recorded since before the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, the number of unemployed people fell by 360,000, indicating a steady shift toward economic renewal.
Official Response
The ANC said the latest figures confirm that efforts to stabilise the energy supply, rebuild the economy, and speed up infrastructure investment are starting to deliver results.
“This progress reflects the tangible impact of coordinated economic interventions and the ANC’s 10-Point Plan,” the party said.
The movement noted that strategic support for sectors such as manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and tourism is helping reignite economic activity and widen opportunities. However, the ANC also acknowledged ongoing challenges.
“Far too many of our people remain without work. The fight against unemployment remains our foremost priority,” it added.
The party called on government, labour, and business to deepen collaboration to unlock industrial investment, support small and medium enterprises, and ensure public spending drives inclusive growth.
Community Impact
With the festive season approaching, the ANC urged employers in retail, hospitality, logistics, and agriculture to protect and expand jobs while ensuring decent working conditions and timely pay.
The party said that its 10-Point Economic Plan—focused on energy security, water provision, infrastructure rollout, industrialisation and employment creation—continues to shape the work of the Government of National Unity.
According to the ANC, the latest progress signals that South Africa is turning a corner toward stability, renewal, and inclusive growth.
“We salute all South Africans, workers, entrepreneurs, and communities whose resilience is driving this recovery,” the party said.
