South Africa's unemployment rate has risen to 33.5% in the second quarter of 2024, marking the highest level since the second quarter of 2022, with 8.384 million people unemployed. The expanded unemployment rate, which includes discouraged job seekers, has also increased to 42.6%. Job losses were primarily seen in the trade and agriculture sectors, while informal sector employment showed some growth. President Cyril Ramaphosa's government has prioritized reducing unemployment, emphasizing the potential of small businesses and the informal sector for job creation. Despite some recovery in skilled employment, unskilled and semi-skilled workers continue to face challenges, with significant job creation expected to take time. The latest figures highlight the ongoing struggle against one of the world's highest unemployment rates.