South Africa’s latest unemployment figures are out, and unfortunately, the picture has gotten worse. The official unemployment rate has risen to 33.6% in the second quarter of 2026, up from 32.7% in the previous quarter.

That means around 8.5 million South Africans are officially unemployed, while the number of employed people has fallen to 16.7 million.

And it’s young people who continue to be the hardest hit.

South Africa&rsquo;s latest unemployment figures are out, and unfortunately, the picture has gotten worse. The official unemployment rate has risen to 33.6% in the second quarter of 2026, up from 32.7% in the previous quarter.
That means around 8.5 million South Africans are officially unemployed, while the number of employed people has fallen to 16.7 million.
And it&rsquo;s young people who continue to be the hardest hit.

Hosted by the vivacious Stephanie Be, get a different flavour on 5 Mid Mornings. Current affairs, updates, news, views and all things entertainment!

Hosted by the vivacious Stephanie Be, get a different flavour on 5 Mid Mornings.

5 Mid Mornings

5 Mid Mornings with Karabo, weekdays from 9h00 to 12h00, now with Karabo Ntshweng at the helm, blends music, conversation, and high-energy audience interaction, reflecting the fast-paced lives of young professionals and students – a fresh, relatable voice balancing ambition, wellness, career growth and socially active living.

5 Mid Mornings with Karabo, weekdays from 9h00 to 12h00, now with Karabo Ntshweng at the helm, blends music, conversation, and high-energy audience interaction, reflecting the fast-paced lives of young professionals and students &ndash; a fresh, relatable voice balancing ambition, wellness, career growth and socially active living.