Economic optimism rises in KwaZulu-Natal with 54,000 new jobs

KwaZulu-Natal's Premier Thami Ntuli was upbeat about the recent upswing in job creation in the province, according to the Statistics South Africa Quarterly Labour Force Survey that was released last week 

The survey indicated that KZN added 54,000 new jobs between the second and third quarters of 2025, which was one of the highest employment gains across the country.

The encouraging data for KZN was in contrast to challenging period that numerous other provinces had experienced in the same term, which included job losses. The statistics reaffirmed KZN's position as a key contributor to country's economic landscape.

“This achievement is a clear sign that KwaZulu-Natal is moving in the right direction,” Ntuli stated. “Our policies, partnerships, and commitment to delivery are working.”

The Premier extended his gratitude to all governmental departments and partners who have played an integral role in bolstering the province's labour market performance, particularly praising the opportunities emerging within the construction, agriculture, and community services sectors.

“We are beginning to see tangible results from our infrastructure led recovery strategy,” he noted, and pointed to the sustained growth experienced in the construction sector, which has played a pivotal role in increasing employment and creating opportunities for small contractors and artisans.

According to the StatsSA report, while South Africa’s overall unemployment rate improved slightly falling to 31.9% in Q3 2025 from 33.2% in Q2 the labour market remains deeply affected by the pandemic's aftershocks.

The country saw a reduction of 248,000 unemployed individuals, bringing the total number of employed South Africans to 17.1 million.

Yet, the labour force contracted by 112,000, illustrating ongoing challenges, and a marked increase in the number of discouraged job seekers.

In stark contrast to national trends, KZN and the Western Cape were highlighted as bright spots, both recording significant increases in employment.

The Premier reaffirmed the unity promise of the Government of Provincial Unity (GPU), which was established to prioritise the needs of citizens over politics.

Ntuli reiterated, “The Government of Provincial Unity was established with the goal of putting the people first above politics and ensuring that we build a province of opportunity.”

He emphasised the provincial government’s commitment to continuing the fight against unemployment, focusing on sustainable job creation, skill development, and stimulating economic growth through targeted investments in crucial sectors.

“Our goal remains clear: to build a prosperous KwaZulu-Natal where every citizen has the opportunity to work, thrive, and contribute to the growth of our province.

"These numbers are just the beginning of what we can achieve together,” he concluded.

Labour expert Michael Bagraim told the publication that the jobs were leading up to the busy tourist season.

Bagraim said both the Western Cape and KwaZulu Natal concentrate heavily on gearing up for the holiday season.

“It must also be noted that both of the provinces are looking carefully at their ports and harbours .

"These ports of entry have improved enormously.

"This creates jobs as well. We must also respect the fact that the government of national unity is starting to work together and all the ministries are concentrating on improvement,” he added.

DAILY NEWS