South Africa’s unemployment rate has risen to 33.6%. Among young people aged 15 to 24, it has reached 62.8%. In the second quarter of 2026, the number of unemployed people increased by approximately 345 000 to 8.5 million, while employment declined by 16 000 to 16.7 million. The labour force itself grew by 329 000 people. More people entered the labour market looking for work. Fewer people were employed. That distinction matters. Because South Africa's unemployment crisis is