Ramaphosa links unemployment crisis to historical inequality
President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa’s unemployment crisis is deeply rooted in the country’s history of exclusion, warning that structural inequality continues to limit economic participation for the majority of citizens.
Speaking at the News24 On the Record Summit in Cape Town, on Thursday, Ramaphosa said the country’s economic challenges cannot be separated from its past.
"Our present is not detached from our past—it is deeply rooted in it."
He explained that South Africa’s economy was historically shaped by concentration and exclusion, where only a minority were able to participate meaningfully.
"Only a few could own, only a few could trade, and the majority were relegated to the margins of economic activity."
Ramaphosa said these structural imbalances continue to drive high levels of unemployment, poverty, and inequality.
"These are not accidents of the moment—they are the living architecture of our history."
He warned that failing to understand these root causes could lead to ineffective solutions.
"A society that does not understand its origins risks misdiagnosing its problems and prescribing the wrong solutions."
The president stressed the need for long-term, structural reforms rather than short-term fixes.
"We must resist the temptation of short-termism and instead embrace a deeper and more honest analysis."
Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of transforming the economy by expanding access and opportunity.
"We must broaden participation in the economy and bring more people into meaningful economic activity."
He also emphasised the need to improve spatial planning and bring people closer to economic opportunities.
"The spatial geography of our cities is still divided by distance and inequality, and this continues to limit access to jobs."
On education and skills, Ramaphosa said the legacy of unequal education continues to affect the labour market.
"Our past education system was designed to exclude, and we are still dealing with the consequences today."
He added that government is working to address infrastructure constraints and improve economic conditions through reforms.
"Without reliable electricity, water, and logistics, companies will not invest, and jobs will not be created
Ramaphosa also highlighted the importance of social support measures while long-term solutions are implemented.
"We must support those who are vulnerable even as we build an economy that creates jobs."
He reiterated that collaboration across sectors is essential to solving the unemployment crisis.
"When everyone is in the tent, we are better able to find solutions and move forward together."
Ramaphosa concluded by calling for unity and a solutions-driven approach.
"We must move away from pessimism and recognise that every challenge we face presents an opportunity to build a better future."
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