A journey towards economic empowerment
On the 30th of April 2024, the 8th edition of the Labour Activation Programme Project Launch took place at Xilumani Hotel in Giyani, Greater Giyani Municipality in the Mopani District . It was led by esteemed guests including; the Minister of Employment and Labour, Thulas Nxesi, his Deputy, Boitumelo Moloi, the MEC for Limpopo Economic Development, Environment, and Tourism, Rodgers Monama, the MEC for Limpopo Provincial Treasury, Seaparo Sekoati, as well as the MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Nakedi Kekana.
The launch was hosted by the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF), an entity of the Department of Employment and Labour, forming part of the national roll out plan to create more than 700 000 employment opportunities across the country. “Initially, the idea was to preserve jobs, but now we do more than that,” detailed the Commissioner for the UIF, Teboho Maruping. He further added that now it’s a self-funded structure with paid benefits that enhances employability, enables entrepreneurship, and promotes economic growth. “The main objective for the programme is to transform people to become either employees or employers,” said the Commissioner.
One of the beneficiaries of the programme, Palesa Kutumela, explained how much she has benefited from the initiative. “I receive funding from the UIF, and run a well-supported business,” expressed the Bachelor of Arts graduate from the University of Limpopo. After failing to find employment upon completion of her studies, the young lady went into the catering and culinary industry and opened her kitchen called “The Crunch” to sustain herself. Now she is able to uplift her community with her business.
This solidifies the MEC for the Limpopo Provincial Treasury, Seaparo Sekoati’s statement when he said: “Young people who might have lost hope, can find hope again through programmes like these.” He proclaimed that he acknowledges the contribution that this will bring to the already growing fight against unemployment that we are making. “Last year alone, we created 180 000 jobs, making us the second growing province in South Africa,” added Sekoati.
The Minister of Employment and Labour delivered a keynote address and emphasized on the purpose of this Activation Programme. He mentioned that only substantial economic recovery and development will rescue the country’s unemployment woes. “These initiatives are not a silver bullet that can be used to end unemployment completely but can be used to bridge the gap between job seekers and empowerment through skills development,” continued the Minister.
“This project launch is a partnership between all stakeholders such as the Department of Employment and Labour, UIF, and service providers, with the aim of activating employment opportunities for every qualifying and competent individual in South Africa, and contribute to the growth of the economy. “The ultimate target for now is to create two million jobs for young people in South Africa,”said Thulas.