NELSON MANDELA BAY FACES JOB CRISIS
GQEBERHA- Nelson Mandela Bay is facing a tough time after losing 42,000 jobs in the automotive sector due to a 25% tariff imposed by the United States.
This sharp decline has pushed the official unemployment rate in the area from 22.3% to 26.4%, while the expanded unemployment rate has soared from 27.1% to 35%.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Eastern Cape is raising alarms, urging the need for urgent economic reform to prevent the region from falling into a cycle of joblessness and dependency.
DA leader Dr. Vicky Knoetze stated, “Citizens of the Eastern Cape deserve a government that will act decisively to create jobs, restore dignity, and protect livelihoods.”
In response to the crisis, the DA has proposed a six-point plan aimed at revitalizing the economy and creating sustainable jobs. The plan includes:
- Eliminating job-killing policies
- Ensuring affordable energy
- Repairing crumbling infrastructure
- Reducing waste in government spending
- Supporting municipalities
- Fighting crime
Despite the challenges, the Eastern Cape saw some positive news, with 89,000 jobs added across the province in the second quarter of 2025, mainly due to seasonal agricultural work.
Buffalo City reported a drop in unemployment from 37.3% to 28.6%, adding 30,000 jobs, although the sectors responsible for this growth remain unclear.
The DA’s plan aims to unlock investment, stabilize the economy, and help businesses thrive. “Eastern Cape can’t lose more youth,” warns the DA, promising to lead the charge for opportunity, safety, and honest governance.