More hardships for unemployed amid lockdown extension
As the countrywide lockdown enters its third week, many have already depleted their food supplies and cannot go out to earn a living and generate an income to support their households.
WITH no means to earn an income, the Covid-19 crisis is taking its toll on the unemployed and vulnerable, as they have no other options open to them to provide for themselves and their families.
As the countrywide lockdown enters the extension period, many have already depleted their food supplies and cannot go out to earn a living and generate an income to support their households.
Community member and social justice activist, Luyanda Msane, said the situation has reached alarming levels as families battle to survive.
‘The unemployement rate in the last quarter of 2019 was at 29.1%, and this is probably higher now as many people don’t have permanent jobs. Some might not have any jobs when the lockdown is over.
‘We are concerned about the unemployed, child-headed households and vulnerable groups during this time as they are unable to fend for themselves.
‘Community organisations, businesses, religious organisations and community members have teamed up to ensure food parcels are distributed to needy families and have made a huge difference offering relief to many households,’ said Msane.
‘It is all good and well that they have extended the lockdown, but the reality is that the unemployed are becoming more destitute in their homes as a result.
‘We have not heard of any relief for these people and we are now in a further two weeks of lockdown.
‘We have called on the private sector and government to assist people in need as even the food hampers being distributed only sustain families for a short while as some families are much larger than others,’ said Msane.
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