South Africa’s unemployment level increased in the second quarter of 2026, with the number of unemployed people rising to 8.481 million from 8.137 million in the first quarter of the year. The latest figures, updated on 11 August 2026, highlight a further deterioration in labour market conditions over the period.
The jump in unemployed individuals between the first and second quarters of 2026 underscores persistent pressures in South Africa’s job market. While no additional detail on sectoral or regional trends was provided, the data point to a growing pool of job seekers unable to find work as the year progresses.
Market participants and policymakers are likely to watch subsequent releases closely to assess whether the latest increase marks the start of a deeper negative trend in employment or a short-term setback in South Africa’s efforts to stabilise its labour market.
