Western Cape unemployment rate dips again, shows positive job growth

The Western Cape has recorded yet another encouraging decrease in its unemployment rate, now sitting at 19.4% for the third quarter of 2026, ***Cape {town} Etc ***reports.

This is a slight drop from 19.5% in the previous quarter and significantly lower than the national average of 33.7%.

The province has emerged as a beacon of hope in South Africa’s ongoing struggle with joblessness, showcasing a remarkable improvement in employment metrics.

According to the latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS), the Western Cape boasts an impressive addition of 69,000 jobs compared to the same period last year, bringing total employment figures in the province to an estimated 2.88 million.

Notably, it is the only province to demonstrate growth in employment over the past year, cementing its position at the forefront of job creation in the country.

Seven out of ten sectors have reported job gains, with the construction sector leading the charge, adding 33,000 jobs compared to last year. Additionally, the agriculture sector and finance and service sectors followed closely, contributing net increases of 26,000 and 25,000 jobs respectively.

This diversity in job growth across various sectors illustrates the comprehensive approach taken towards economic recovery and job creation.

Premier Alan Winde expressed his satisfaction with the latest figures, stating, ‘We welcome this reduction in the unemployment rate. We must work harder than ever to keep getting more residents out of poverty and into the provincial economy,’

He highlighted the ongoing commitment to fostering a resilient and inclusive economy that opens doors for greater opportunities for the province’s residents.

Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer further accentuated the successes achieved, noting, ‘These figures demonstrate that sustained investment in growth-enabling sectors such as agriculture, trade, tourism, manufacturing, and infrastructure is delivering tangible results for the residents of the Western Cape,’

He reinforced the determination to continue fostering job creation and expanding entrepreneurial opportunities to ensure that economic benefits reach every community across the region.

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South Africa’s unemployment rate climbs to 33.7% as joblessness deepens

Picture: Lubabalo Lesolle / Gallo Images

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