The latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) highlights that one in two people in the Northern Cape remain unemployed, emphasising the need to get the Northern Cape working for all. The survey for the second quarter of 2026 confirms an expanded unemployment rate of 47.1% for the Northern Cape.
Red tape surrounding the establishment and financing of Small, Medium, and Micro-Enterprises (SMMEs) has deterred potential entrepreneurs from opening and running businesses which should have created jobs for local citizens. To stimulate growth in communities, the government must cut red tape and support small businesses by improving the services offered to them and allowing them to grow.
Municipalities cannot continue to be run by politically connected cadres. The instability of municipalities in the Northern Cape makes it difficult to attract promising investments. With the Kamiesberg Local Municipality crippled by 46-day-long power outages and the Sol Plaatje Local Municipality still experiencing unannounced water outages from time to time, these municipalities foster no confidence with potential investors. The security failures and vandalism at the Upington Industrial Park make it difficult for investors to secure assets and attract clients. Failing electrical, water, sewer and maintenance systems alienate businesses that could have empowered local communities. Public funds must be protected and used for services to local communities.
The Western Cape continues to have the lowest unemployment rates in the country. The DA-run Western Cape is responsible for nearly 90% of all net jobs created in South Africa over the past five years.
Only the DA has the experience, capable people, and proven track record to get the Northern Cape working for all. By voting DA, residents can restore basic services, cut red tape, and support local businesses to create more local jobs.