South Africa’s Department of Employment & Labour announces commitment to creating jobs for citizens

The Department of Employment & Labour in South Africa has announced its commitment to creating jobs for citizens through its five-year Strategic Plan for 2020-2024. The department plans to shift its focus from labor market regulation to employment creation, coordinating efforts with government agencies. Over the past year, the Unemployment Insurance Fund has created over 14,000 jobs for young South Africans, providing them with economically relevant skills to be employed or start cooperatives. The department plans to use innovation, technology, and novel approaches to meet the demand for jobs in the country, acknowledging that some risks are inherent in such efforts. It will work with non-profit organizations, private and public sector institutions, and other stakeholders to explore new employment initiatives and innovations. The department emphasized that it is committed to responsible verification, monitoring, and due diligence on projects, and that bureaucracy should not be used as an excuse to suppress job opportunities. It also emphasized that there is no place for corruption or serving self-interests in its efforts to create sustainable jobs for South Africans.