Cyril Ramaphosa urges business to address South African youth unemployment

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for a collaborative effort between government, business, and labor to expand economic opportunities for young people. Speaking at the South African National Leadership Convening on Youth Employment in Sandton, Ramaphosa emphasized that the lack of workplace experience should not be mistaken for a lack of ability.

Addressing the cycle where youth cannot secure jobs without experience and cannot gain experience without jobs, the President urged employers to view training and mentorship as an investment in the future economy rather than charity. He noted that youth unemployment in the country rose to 62.8% in the second quarter of 2026.

Ramaphosa also stressed that existing programs must move beyond providing temporary work or certificates, stating, “Certificates are not jobs.” He advocated for creating sustainable livelihoods and pathways into growing sectors, such as artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. Additionally, he encouraged established businesses to support young entrepreneurs by integrating them into supply chains and expanding access to working capital.