Limpopo sees sharp drop in unemployment
Limpopo’s unemployment falls to 29.8% in Q3 2025, the biggest provincial drop, driven by job gains and rising investor confidence.
LIMPOPO – Limpopo has recorded the most significant drop in unemployment among all provinces, with the rate falling by 5.2% to 29.8% in the third quarter of 2025, according to Statistics South Africa’s latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) released on Tuesday, November 11.
The province’s unemployment rate decreased from 35% in the second quarter, while the national rate dropped to 31.9% over the same period.
Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba welcomed the report, describing the results as a sign that Limpopo’s economy is gaining momentum.
“We welcome the results of the survey, which affirm our earlier assessments regarding Limpopo’s economic growth trajectory,” said Ramathuba. “Our province’s contribution of 0.9% to the national GDP highlights the strides we are making as we work collectively to provide opportunities for our residents.”
Investment and infrastructure projects drive job gains
According to Stats SA, most of the employment gains were recorded in the construction, services, and trade sectors, which have been key drivers of recovery and job creation in recent months.
Ramathuba said the Provincial Government remains focused on achieving even lower unemployment levels, as outlined in the Limpopo Development Plan.
“The 29.8% is not the ideal to celebrate but a step towards making sure that unemployment in our province is way below 20%,” she said. “It is for this reason we are pushing for more industrialisation, especially in manufacturing.”
She also pointed to the R170bn in investment pledges made during the recent Limpopo Investment Conference as a major vote of confidence in the province’s economic potential.
She said her administration is determined to ensure that at least half of those commitments are realised.
“Our commitment to inclusive growth is unwavering, and we will leverage these opportunities for the benefit of our people,” Ramathuba added.
Infrastructure development continues to play a crucial role in job creation, with 21 new road construction projects currently underway in partnership with the South African National Road Agency Ltd (Sanral) and various mining companies.
Ramathuba said these initiatives are designed not only to create employment but also to strengthen the province’s road network and support long-term economic expansion.
