Key Takeaways:
- Young people in Rustenburg have defended themselves against claims by ANC chairperson Gwede Mantashe that they are too lazy to look for jobs.
- The youth have stated that there are no jobs available and that they are forced to find alternative ways to make a living.
- Some young people have started their own businesses, such as transportation services, to make ends meet.
- Others have blamed the government for not doing enough to provide job opportunities and for corruption.
- President Cyril Ramaphosa has committed to creating a more favourable environment for young people to thrive through the expansion of economic opportunities.
Introduction to the Controversy
The recent statements made by ANC chairperson Gwede Mantashe have sparked controversy among young people in Rustenburg. Mantashe claimed that the youth are too lazy to look for jobs and want the government to provide them with employment. However, young people in the area have come out to defend themselves, stating that there are no jobs available and that they are forced to find alternative ways to make a living. The issue of unemployment is a pressing concern in the North West Province, where service delivery challenges have resulted in frustration among the population.
The Struggle to Find Employment
Many young people in Rustenburg have shared their stories of struggle and frustration in finding employment. Lebogang Kgosi, a 25-year-old resident of Moruleng township, has started his own transportation business using a rented bicycle to carry community members and their groceries. He makes around R650 a day, which is a significant improvement from his previous life in Northam, where he was forced to stop his transportation business due to high crime levels. Kgosi’s story is just one example of the many young people who are taking matters into their own hands to make a living.
Alternative Ways to Make a Living
In the absence of formal employment opportunities, many young people in Rustenburg are finding alternative ways to make a living. Maruping Chauke, a resident of Lerume township, has taken to repairing a stretch of tar road affected by potholes. He makes around R100 a day, which is enough to keep him away from a life of crime and stealing copper cables. Chauke’s story highlights the resourcefulness and resilience of young people in the face of adversity. However, it also underscores the need for more formal employment opportunities and support from the government.
Criticism of the Government
Many young people in Rustenburg have criticized the government for not doing enough to provide job opportunities and for corruption. Pilane Modise, a resident of Moruleng, stated that nothing under the ANC works, from corruption to education and job opportunities. He expressed his frustration and insult at Mantashe’s comments, stating that there are no jobs available and that mines have been shut down, further complicating the lives of young people. Modise’s comments reflect the widespread disillusionment with the government among young people in Rustenburg.
Differing Opinions
Not all young people in Rustenburg agree with the criticism of Mantashe’s comments. Vuyo Matshenya, a 21-year-old resident of Moruleng, blamed the youth for lacking initiative and spending their time drinking instead of investing in their future. He stated that he agrees with Mantashe’s comments and that some young people do not want to look for jobs. Matshenya’s comments highlight the diversity of opinions among young people in Rustenburg and the need for a more nuanced understanding of the issues facing the youth.
The Government’s Response
In response to the criticism, President Cyril Ramaphosa has committed to creating a more favourable environment for young people to thrive through the expansion of economic opportunities. During his keynote address on Saturday, Ramaphosa acknowledged the government’s weaknesses and failures in service delivery and governance, as well as the slow pace of economic growth and high levels of unemployment. He stated that the government must do better to address these issues and provide opportunities for young people to succeed. Meanwhile, Mantashe has accused political analysts and critics of blowing his remarks out of proportion, stating that he gave a balanced view during his interview with the SABC.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding Mantashe’s comments highlights the pressing issue of unemployment among young people in Rustenburg. While some young people have found alternative ways to make a living, many others are still struggling to find employment. The government’s response to the issue has been criticized, with many young people feeling that not enough is being done to provide job opportunities and support. As the government moves forward, it is essential that it prioritizes the needs of young people and provides a more favourable environment for them to thrive.
