LETTER: Is there a political will to create jobs?

• Thabile Mange writes:

Part of the government’s role is to develop the country’s economy and create a conducive environment for job creation. When the government fails to carry out the above-mentioned role, the country suffers. This is the case with South Africa.

Who is the minister of labour in South Africa? The unemployment rate has become unprecedentedly high in this country and the minister of labour is nowhere to be found. Is he sleeping on the job?

According to government, unemployment is high on its agenda. What has it done to mitigate high unemployment? Nothing, except lip service. The subtle message from the government is: “see to finish”. But what about its promise to create jobs?

The government is not treating this matter with a sense of urgency. Or does it? It is yet to announce its strategy to create jobs and reduce unemployment. Or did I miss the announcement? I don’t think so.

In South Africa, unemployment has been high for more than ten years. And nothing suggests that more jobs will be created soon or in the next five years. That means the unemployment rate will continue to rise, unless a miracle happens.

Sadly, mostly the youth is affected by high unemployment. The young lions are sitting at home doing nothing. Some have degrees, honours and masters. Yet they remain unemployed. Clearly, the democratic government is failing to play its role.

The pertinent question is: Is there a political will to create jobs? Or is the governing party bankrupt of ideas on how to create jobs? The government needs to explain to the nation why it is not creating jobs. It owes the nation that much.