KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has welcomed the latest Statistics South Africa Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS), which reveals that KZN recorded 54 000 new jobs between the second and third quarters of 2025 — one of the highest employment gains in the country.
The unemployment rate nationally decreased by 1.3 percentage points to 31,9% in the third quarter.
Ntuli said, in a recent statement, that the results underscore growing confidence in KZN’s economy and the positive impact of the Government of Provincial Unity (GPU), which has brought stability, collaboration, and results-driven governance to the province.
“This achievement is a clear sign that KwaZulu-Natal is moving in the right direction. This demonstrates that our policies, partnerships, and commitment to delivery are working,” said Ntuli.
KZN was second to the Western Cape in terms of the increase in employment. According to the QLFS, the largest increases in employment were recorded in the Construction, Services and Trade industries across the country.
Ntuli said the province was beginning to see tangible results from our infrastructure-led recovery strategy.
“The continued growth of the construction sector, supported by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), has not only boosted employment but has also created opportunities for small contractors and artisans across KwaZulu-Natal,” he added.
The Premier also praised the collaborative leadership within the Government of Provincial Unity (GPU), emphasising that the unity government’s shared vision is translating into real outcomes for the province.
“The Government of Provincial Unity was established with the goal of putting the people first — above politics — and ensuring that we build a province of opportunity. These job gains show that when we work together, we can deliver meaningful change and restore confidence in our economy,” he said.
Hannah Lidgett, DA KZN spokesperson on Economic Development said construction in KZN has shown quarter-on-quarter growth, underscoring the success of infrastructure-led recovery efforts and Department of Public Works and Infrastructure programmes that are beginning to create tangible employment opportunities.
“This a positive indication within an industry that supports thousands of small contractors and artisans across the province. KZN’s gains reflect more than just numbers – they represent renewed confidence in the collaborative leadership and stability brought about by the GPU, of which the DA is a committed partner. ”
THE MERCURY
