lemonde.fr
South Africa's High Unemployment Drives Informal Economy
In South Africa's Daveyton township, high unemployment (32 percent overall, 45 percent among 15–34 year-olds) forces many, like 30-year-old Thabang Moshoke, to create informal jobs; he runs a backyard barbershop, earning about 250 euros monthly, while others operate nail salons and shoe-cleaning services.
- What is the impact of South Africa's high unemployment rate on its citizens, particularly young people?
- In South Africa, high unemployment forces many to create informal jobs. Thabang Moshoke, a 30-year-old barber, exemplifies this, operating a makeshift barbershop in his backyard after losing his job during the COVID-19 pandemic. He earns roughly 250 euros monthly, similar to the official minimum wage, working six days a week.
- What systemic factors contribute to persistent youth unemployment in South Africa, and what are the long-term implications?
- The persistence of high unemployment, particularly among youth, contributes to elevated crime and drug dependency rates. Despite government claims to prioritize youth unemployment, residents express skepticism, noting the government's absence except during election campaigns. This points towards a structural unemployment issue rooted in systemic failures and inadequate government response.
- How do the experiences of informal entrepreneurs like Thabang Moshoke reflect broader economic and social challenges in South Africa?
- Moshoke's story reflects South Africa's high unemployment rate, reaching 32 percent overall and 45 percent among 15-34 year-olds. His informal business, along with others like a nail salon and shoe-cleaning service in the same township, highlights the lack of formal employment opportunities. This situation is exacerbated by insufficient basic education and resources, according to Bonga Makhanya of the South African Youth Economic Council.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the narrative around the high unemployment rate among young black South Africans and the lasting impact of apartheid. The focus on individual struggles and the lack of opportunities reinforces the severity of the problem. The use of quotes from unemployed individuals emphasizes their experiences and frustrations. While this framing is effective in conveying the gravity of the issue, it could be balanced with more information about efforts being made to combat the problem.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective, although words like "exclus", "pénalisés", and "mendier" carry negative connotations. However, these words accurately reflect the dire circumstances described. The article uses direct quotes, allowing the voices of the subjects to be heard without significant editorial influence.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses on the struggles of young black South Africans facing unemployment, but it could benefit from including data or perspectives on government initiatives aimed at addressing youth unemployment, or success stories of those who have overcome similar challenges. While the article mentions government promises, it lacks concrete examples of effective government programs or their impact. The article also omits discussion of potential solutions beyond addressing structural issues.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the high unemployment rate in South Africa, especially among youth, impacting decent work and economic growth. Many young people are forced into informal work or unemployment, hindering their economic prospects and contributing to societal challenges. Quotes illustrating this include: "Thabang Moshoke, 30 ans, trace à la tondeuse des contours à un client dans ce township voisin de Johannesburg... Il est devenu « barber » informel faute d'avoir trouvé un trop rare emploi dans l'économie officielle sud-africaine, en proie à l'un des taux de chômage les plus élevés au monde.", and "Les déclarations du gouvernement faisant du chômage des jeunes l'une des priorités de la première économie du continent ne convainquent pas les intéressés rencontrés à Daveyton.