Editor
LAST week the Quarterly Labour Force Survey revealed that 8.9 million people do not have jobs, or have given up looking for jobs, in South Africa. It’s staggering that 355 000 people lost their jobs in the first few months of this year. Equally concerning is that, on average, up to four people rely on each employed person. The socio economic consequences of such unemployment is extremely serious.
Locally the effects of government failure to implement structural reforms to boost economic growth are evident. Despite, uMhlanga (Ward 35) being one of the most affluent wards in the province, there are still hundreds of residents who are in desperate need of even a part time job in the region.
The sad reality is that the ANC has failed to put in place strong anti-corruption policies, sound economic policy and a transparent bidding and tender system at local government level. Coupled, this has become a recipe for disaster in the private sector, which is the engine for job creation. This city needs change. And change is possible on 3 August.
Heinz de Boer
Councillor
Democratic Alliance
