Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has recently called on Zimbabweans to focus on securing employment within their own country rather than seeking jobs in South Africa.
Speaking at the EFF’s Siyabonga Rally held in Seshego on August 16, Malema emphasized South Africa’s staggering youth unemployment rate of 66.5% as a critical reason for his appeal. He urged Zimbabweans to seek job opportunities in their local municipalities, including Harare, instead of looking across the border.
Malema stated, “We are not saying Zimbabweans should not be given jobs, but they must get jobs from their own municipalities,” highlighting the importance of economic self-reliance and reducing pressure on South Africa’s job market.
This statement represents a notable shift from Malema’s position in 2022, when he encouraged South African employers to hire Zimbabweans and other African nationals, albeit with a preference for locals. His current stance reflects growing concerns about unemployment challenges within South Africa and a call for neighboring countries to strengthen their own economies.
Malema’s remarks have sparked conversations on regional migration, economic cooperation, and the responsibilities of both South Africa and Zimbabwe in addressing unemployment and economic development.
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