Cyril Ramaphosa calls for shared responsibility to tackle inequality and youth unemployment

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on skilled professionals, academics, and business leaders to assist the government in addressing national inequality and building an inclusive economy. Speaking at Johannesburg City Hall, Ramaphosa emphasized that while democracy has expanded opportunities previously denied under apartheid, significant disparities in education and economic access remain.

He argued that the responsibility for a prosperous and just society cannot rest solely on the state. Instead, those with education, financial resources, and professional influence must contribute to growing the economy and creating opportunities for others.

Additionally, addressing the SA Youth National Leadership Convening in Sandton, Ramaphosa challenged employers to reconsider recruitment practices that exclude young people due to a lack of work experience. He urged businesses to recognize potential, aptitude, and a willingness to learn rather than treating a lack of experience as a lack of ability, noting that the country cannot afford to waste the potential of its youth.