Mzansi Reacts to the Increased Unemployment Rate, The Number of Those Without Jobs Shocks Many

• South Africa’s unemployment rate has climbed to a concerning new level in the second quarter of 2025, sparking widespread discussion
• The update has drawn a strong public reaction, with many expressing concern over the country’s ability to create sustainable jobs
• The issue has reignited the debate on the need for urgent economic interventions and long-term solutions to address joblessness

South Africans are voicing growing concern online after new figures revealed a sharp rise in unemployment, prompting renewed calls for action to address the country’s deepening jobs crisis.

South Africa’s unemployment crisis has intensified, with the jobless rate reaching 33.2% in the second quarter of 2025. The figures were confirmed by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) during a media briefing, and a clip from the announcement gained widespread attention after being posted on TikTok by user @the_scent_central on 12 August 2025.

Stats SA revealed that the number of unemployed people has increased by 140,000 since the previous quarter, pushing the total to an alarming 8.4 million. The latest update has left many South Africans deeply concerned about the country’s economic direction.

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Urgent action needed to confront a growing crisis

The data reflects the continued struggle to create sustainable employment opportunities. While there have been small signs of growth in certain industries, the rate at which jobs are being added is far too slow to keep up with demand. Many South Africans are facing long-term unemployment, and for new job seekers entering the market, prospects remain bleak.

Users have shared their disappointment and concern over the rising unemployment rate. For many, the numbers are not just a statistic but a reflection of the reality in communities across the country, where joblessness has a direct impact on families and households.

The reaction online highlights the public’s awareness of the urgent need for targeted interventions. Citizens have been discussing the importance of creating sustainable industries, improving access to skills development, and encouraging entrepreneurship as part of a long-term solution.

The viral TikTok post has heightened awareness of the issue, prompting renewed calls for government, business, and community leaders to collaborate in tackling the crisis. As the conversation continues online, many South Africans are looking for concrete steps that will translate into real opportunities and improved livelihoods.

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Mzansi reacted to the video

An anonymous user said:

"Departments are sitting with ghost employees while so many real people are desperate for work."

ZynabGama wrote:

"I have never been employed in my entire life, and it breaks my heart every single day."

Mark commented:

"I have been unemployed for five years, even though I have IT degrees and years of experience; it feels hopeless."

Liliza said:

"What must we do with these statistics? When are you actually going to tell us about your plans?"

Thima wrote:

"They want to extend the retirement age to 65 when they should reduce it to 55 to open up opportunities for others."

Hope commented:

"I have been unemployed for four years, and I honestly do not see the situation improving anytime soon."

M E L L U C Y said:

"Announcing South Africa’s unemployment rate makes us feel like fools; instead of statistics, we need real solutions, not lies and empty promises."

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Matuka88 wrote:

"No wonder the crime rate is so high; people are hungry and desperate, and the ANC has collapsed this country."

Check out the TikTok video below:

3 Briefly News stories about unemployment

• Statistics South Africa revealed the new unemployment statistics, which showed an increase in the number of jobless South African women.
• Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa took things to the next level ahead of their anticipated concert by tackling youth unemployment.
• A Mzansi woman named Ongezwa shared on her TikTok account that she was leaving her days of unemployment in the past.

Source: Briefly News