Business and investment key to tackling youth unemployment: Zuma

With youth unemployment a major concern ahead of the local government elections, uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) First Deputy President Duduzane Zuma says government alone cannot create the jobs South Africa needs.

Addressing an MK Party provincial election rally at K Hall in uMlazi, Zuma said the party wants to expand opportunities for young people, particularly through business, entrepreneurship and investment, which he argues are critical to creating sustainable employment.

He has urged supporters to use their vote on 4 November to push for change and greater economic opportunities for young people.

ON AIR | The MKP says the party is committed to creating 400,000 jobs for young people over five years. Tune in to Elections 360 on the SABC News Channel, SABC+ and YouTube. https://t.co/abraqGeCWx

— SABC News (@SABCNews) October 25, 2026

“Some of us have had the opportunity to be exposed to a wealth of information and opportunities in business, politics, social issues and other areas. We have travelled the world and lived in different places. And I can tell you, comrades, young people are running this world. In politics, business, technology and governance, everywhere you look, you see change and leadership emerging where young people are taking control. Across the African continent, including South Africa, there is a hunger and a need for younger leaders to emerge. This continent has the youngest population in the world and some of the greatest opportunities, yet we are the ones not taking advantage of them,” says Zuma.

He says that as much as the 4th of November is approaching and everyone is keeping an eye on the elections, the youth must also focus on the opportunities that politics can bring.

“Not all of us can be involved in government departments or municipalities. Among us, there must be people who create opportunities, business people, entrepreneurs and those outside government who are willing to step forward and make a difference,” he adds.

Zuma says employment is a function of investment, and with investment comes opportunity.

“Government can only employ so many people. The reason I am saying this is that I am sure you are sick and tired, just as all of us are, of hearing the same old stories and the same promises,” he says.

He says that the MK Party is yet to put its plan into action.

LGE 2026 | MK Party First Deputy President Duduzane Zuma says government alone cannot create the jobs South Africa needs. He was speaking at the party’s rally in uMlazi, KwaZulu-Natal. https://t.co/qK7sAGMkyh

— SABC News (@SABCNews) October 25, 2026

“The vision outlined by the president of this organisation is backed by a solid plan, and that plan involves young people. However, for us to deliver on that plan, we must first deliver power to the people. That is why I say the vote matters. Elections come only once in a while, and the only power we have as Black people and as young people in this country is our vote,” says Zuma.

VIDEO | LGE 2026 | MK Party focuses on youth unemployment