TZANEEN: Unemployed man collects scrap metal for a living
He explained that the many years that he has been unemployed were very hard for him.
An unemployed man has taken matters into his own hands to ensure that there is something on the table for his family at the end of the day.
Lebogang Mathekga (47) from Sehlakong Village collects scrap metal for a living after battling unemployment for 10 years following his retrenchment in 2007.
Mathekga, who worked for a fitting and turning company in Johannesburg before losing his job, started to collect scrap in Tzaneen CBD and the surrounding areas two years ago.
ALSO READ: TZANEEN: Entrepreneurs ask for help in growing
Using a shopping trolley as a means of transport, Mathekga picks up scrap, cans and bits of broken recyclable metal to sell to scrap metal dealers who then sell to recycling companies.
On a good day, the father of one says he makes up to R200.
“These people are effectively cleaning our town while earning a living. They should be supported and encouraged to continue doing the good work,” said a resident Johannes Mogale.
Mathekga says a lot of people are joining in on collecting scrap in order to make a living.
“Competition is tough but with the high unemployment rate, we have to continue as scrap collectors to survive the current economic conditions,” he said.
ALSO READ: Entrepreneurship making a good stand in universities
He explained that the many years that he has been unemployed were very hard for him.
He also added that being unable to provide for his family made him decide to do something while looking for formal employment.
“I am not under pressure to find employment anymore because with the little that I make, I am able to provide for my family.”
He further stated that even though it is not enough, it is better than going to bed with an empty stomach.
He advised other unemployed people not to wait for the government and private companies to provide employment for them but rather to do something to improve their lives.
“There are many ways to survive. One can start a small business or an agricultural project to generate money,” he advised.
