Sandton: At its 30th Annual Summit, the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) reflected on three decades of social dialogue amid South Africa’s ongoing economic challenges, especially high unemployment. The summit highlighted a stark unemployment rate of 33.2%, with women bearing a heavier burden at 35.9%.

According to South African Government News Agency, Deputy President Paul Mashatile delivered a keynote address virtually, emphasizing the continued relevance of former President Nelson Mandela’s earlier observation that democratic gains will remain “fragile and shallow” without real improvements in people’s lives. Mashatile reiterated Mandela’s words from the 4th Annual Summit, noting the persistent challenge of job creation 26 years later.

The Deputy President raised concerns about potential job losses from the 30% United States tariffs on South African exports, affecting sectors such as agriculture, automotive, manufacturing, and mining. He clarified that while NEDLAC does not directly create jobs, it promotes an enabling environment through sector-specific interventions, SME support, skills development programs, and employment initiatives.

Mashatile urged social partners to unite and alter the country’s trajectory by pursuing a collective objective driven by shared values. He highlighted the importance of the National Dialogue, a people-centered initiative, to address the frustrations and needs of ordinary South Africans, aiming to unite the nation, heal past wounds, and chart a common path forward.

Looking ahead, Mashatile expressed confidence in the NEDLAC 30-Year Project, which analyzed achievements from 1994-2024, to fast-track government programs through its proposals. He stressed the need to dismantle systemic barriers to establish equal opportunities for all, thereby promoting equality.

Through NEDLAC’s dialogue and engagements, significant progress has been made, resulting in amendments to labor law and initiatives like the Presidential Employment Stimulus and the revised Employment Equity Act. Mashatile also emphasized the importance of strengthening ties through the Group of 20 (G20) engagement groups and called for continued partnership between government, business, labor, and community organizations to tackle persistent socio-economic challenges.

He concluded by stating that solidarity, equality, and sustainability are key to building an economy that reflects the aspirations of all South Africans.