The videos include images of shops said to belong to people from other African countries being vandalised and/or looted. There have also been videos of people said to be of other African nationalities being chased or beaten, school children demanding the removal of their foreign-born classmates, and the video of a Ghanaian national being questioned about his immigration status by a group of more than ten South Africans, including anti-immigration activist Victoria Africa. 

These xenophobic attacks, as they’re being called on digital and mainstream media, are not new to South Africa. As Africa’s most industrialised nation since the late 19th century, South Africa has always attracted people from different parts of the continent and beyond. It has, since the 1980s, been a refuge for Mozambicans fleeing the civil war in their country. And since the 1990s, it has attracted thousands of economic migrants from Zimbabwe seeking a better life.

Years of deprivation and unemployment, especially among Black South Africans, have, however, left many of them feeling less secure about their economic prospects today as migrants land jobs or start their own businesses in South Africa. 

The earliest reported cases of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, according to South African History Online, date back at least to 1994. According to the website, “In December 1994 and January 1995, armed youth gangs in the Alexandra Township outside of Johannesburg, Gauteng Province, destroyed the homes and property of suspected undocumented migrants and marched the individuals down to the local police station where they demanded that the foreigners be forcibly and immediately removed.” 

Three decades on, not much has changed when it comes to how some Black South Africans feel about their fellow Africans living and working in their country. Perhaps, the main difference today is the brazen manner in which some of them carry out their attacks or acts of intimidation against other African nationals as smartphone cameras capture the encounter. 

 Census data from Statistics South Africa indicates that there were 2.4 million international migrants in the country as of 2022. They represented a little over three percent of the country’s total population at the time of 62 million. Of the international migrant numbers, over 80 percent were from the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Out of that number, nearly 50 percent were from Zimbabwe followed by Mozambique with 18.7 percent. 

Though  international migrants make up a sliver of the populace, some of them have reportedly been involved in criminal activities, as South African journalist Kenneth Mokgatlhe told me. 

“With the social and economic issues which are obviously facing the country, most of them, especially crime, is being blamed on foreigners. This might be because some of the crimes, such as cash-in-transit, you find that it is committed largely by people from Zimbabwe. Most of the time when people are apprehended, you find that there are always foreign nationals, especially the Zimbabweans, and then you’ve got the drug trafficking, which is a huge issue at the moment,” he said. 

A commission of inquiry investigating the infiltration of criminal elements into the government heard allegations of drug cartels operating in South Africa. Kenneth says the drug trafficking ring is largely made up of foreign nationals from around the world. This discovery, he says, has heightened security concerns for many. “So that is why you are seeing this organisation coming forth because they have lost confidence in the political system.”

But as is the case with most protests, the underlying currents for the recent activities by the March and March movement are not only social and economic, but also political.

While ActionSA, founded by former Johannesburg Mayor Herman Mashaba, explicitly calls for an overhaul of the country’s immigration system to “attract skilled migrants while clamping down on the influx of undocumented migrants through our porous borders,” the Patriotic Alliance, the party to which Victoria Africa is aligned, says on its website that it has “zero tolerance for illegal immigration”. 

Though the stances of these two parties are clear, Kenneth explains that the upcoming November 4 local government elections have made it difficult for some political parties to take a clear position on the matter.

“You have the ANC, which is defending this protest because they realise that they have got huge political and electoral implications, so they don’t want to denounce the ongoing marches. The only party that is against the ongoing marches is the EFF,” Kenneth says, adding that the ANC’s general secretary, however, “has vowed to support the ongoing protest, but on government platforms, that is where they’re trying to condemn it and to call for law and order.”

 The party positions aside, the lack of enforcement of labour regulations is another major contributory factor to the recent wave of anti-migrant protests.

The government’s seeming inaction when it comes to labour laws has made it possible for some companies to employ illegal immigrants desperate to eek out a living and exploit them by paying them less than the minimum wage. It has also given room to enterprising Somalis and Ethiopians, for instance, to operate local convenience stores known as spaza shops, even if they do not have the requisite documentation, a move Kenneth says is putting spaza shops operated by South Africans at a disadvantage. All these, he notes, create tension between South Africans and the migrants. 

“I think that it is the government which is causing this conflict,” Kenneth says. “What has happened between 1994 and now is that the ANC has collapsed the state and as such, people in the last election tried to vote the ANC out but they ultimately did not get one winner, so the ANC is still presiding over the government. But people know. They understand that the ANC has run down the government and the state does not have the capacity as it used to under the white rule of the national party which is known as the apartheid system. But because of the frustrations, then they get to blame the wrong person. I think that they should be blaming and pointing their finger at the government.”

In his first address to the nation since the countries started evacuating its citizens following the anti-immigration protests, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged the economic and immigration challenges facing his nation.  

“South Africa faces persistently high levels of unemployment, especially amongst our young people,” the president said. “Too many families are struggling to make ends meet. The cost of living is very high for many of the people of South Africa. Too many communities are experiencing poverty and inadequate access to opportunities. In such circumstances, frustration can easily be directed to those perceived to be competitors for jobs and resources.” 

With a 32.7 percent unemployment rate, 60 percent of which is people between the ages of 15 and 24, it is easy to understand why many aggrieved South Africans would buy into the idea of blaming immigrants for taking their jobs. And they are not the first to think so. With nationalism on the rise globally, immigration has become a flashpoint issue, bringing to the mainstream the belief across the US and Europe that immigrants compete with locals for jobs.  

While that may not always be the case, a recent video posted to X might explain why the South African case may not be based solely on perception but on reality.

In the video, Victoria Africa appeals to a business owner to employ “locals”. The businessman tells her that he employs locals but, “You know the struggle. Monday is a problem.” He is alluding to a widespread belief that the average South African worker would not show up for work for days once they’re paid. Victoria Africa does not dispute the fact.

Instead, she tells the business owner that, “We will take full accountability. We’ll give you the people. We’ll ensure that they comply. We’ll ensure that they come to work on time and we’re not going to interfere especially if a person comes and disrespects your business or does not follow protocol or does not want to comply. You’ve got every right to take action. And we cannot protect people that don’t want to come to work.” 

This begs the question, if the locals’ attitude to work is unsatisfactory to employers, is it fair to then blame or accuse immigrants of taking jobs meant for South Africans? The illegal immigrant’s fault in this case might be their willingness to take a job that would pay them something far less than what the average South African might be willing to take. And that is simply because they want to survive in a foreign land miles away from home. Also, businesses do not like to run at a loss. They all hope to make profits, no matter how small they are and as a result, they’ll only be interested in workers who will show up for work when they have to. 

As President Ramaphosa said in his Sunday evening address, “illegal immigration is not the cause of all our economic challenges. There are other causes.”

Unfortunately, that pronouncement has come a little too late, as the March and March movement and their supporters have already succeeded in turning the hearts of many South Africans against their fellow Africans.

Since Ghana airlifted some 300 of its citizens home, other African countries have followed suit. Malawi on Saturday, June 6, bused home 150 of its citizens from the Western Cape province. Mozambique has also shuttled over 500 of its nationals home from South Africa. Nigeria is expected to airlift between 2000 and 4000 of its citizens out of South Africa this week. Are there more countries planning to evacuate their citizens? 

For now, South Africa is back in the spotlight for a practice it has engaged in time and again for over three decades, which is anchored on the premise that immigrants, rather than the government’s failure to deliver on its promises, are responsible for the poverty and high unemployment rates they face. But immigration is a global phenomenon. Who’s to say citizens of another African country would not rise up in the days ahead against South Africans in their country or against other African nationals? 

As the push for a “borderless Africa” gains momentum, this latest episode from South Africa should serve as a teaching moment for leaders across the continent. Rwanda, Kenya, Ghana, and Benin, among others, have in recent years rolled out e-visa programs for Africans to encourage intra-continental travel. A laudable idea in principle, but when the number of visitors starts to soar, and immigration policies are tested, how many of them would survive because of their robust immigration policies and how many would have to hit the pause button? 

President Ramaphosa on Sunday listed five action points he hopes would address the issue of illegal migration: cracking down on violations of South Africa’s immigration, labour and other laws, preventing illegal entry, stamping out corruption in the immigration system, strengthening immigration policies, and engaging other African countries to “forge a broader response to migration challenges across our continent and regions”.

It would be great if the fifth point in particular is tabled at the next meeting of African leaders or their foreign ministers so that the dream of making travel across Africa easier and faster with e-visas can become true for every single country on the continent without citizens having to worry that their brothers and sisters from across the continent are coming for their jobs. 

But even as President Ramaphosa has promised to address the issue of the economy and immigration, there are still a few questions that still bug me. What happens later this month when the June 30 ultimatum issued by the protesters is up? How exactly will the South African government ensure the pressure group does not carry out whatever plans it has for that day? What security measures are in place or will be in place for legal migrants from other African nations living in South Africa? And will the South African government seek out and start deporting illegal immigrants before June 30?

The opinions and thoughts expressed in this article reflect only the author's views.

Nii Akrofi Smart-Abbey is an award-winning international journalist, writer, and host of the A55 Podcast. Nii Akrofi has worked with local and international media in  Ghana , Congo and the United States. He has contributed to news platforms like Zenger News, Africanews, W42ndST, and foreignpresscorrespondents.com.

SAFTU National Spokesperson Newton Masuku said the mobilisation was held under the theme: “Unite the employed and the unemployed, fight the jobs bloodbath, fight austerity, and fight illicit trading.”

“This is a call that we are making to the government , that it must intervene against this unemployment,” Masuku told Viory.

He said that although the union had submitted formal memorandums, the march was also aimed at strengthening internal mobilisation among workers.

“The petitioning of the government is merely a formality,” Masuku said. “But in actual fact, it provides us with an opportunity to speak to our membership and therefore to disseminate our ideas on how we think the economy should be sorted out.”

Masuku added that the May Day activities were intended to raise awareness among union members about what he called the “misery of the system.”

Protesters also raised concerns about recent amendments to labour laws, which they said were weakening protections originally designed to safeguard workers.

“We decided to celebrate May Day since last year when we were fighting against the amendments of the labour laws, which is a direct attack on workers,” one protester said.

The protester added that while unions were becoming weaker, capital was becoming more organised.

According to Statistics South Africa, net total employment rose by 21,000 in the final quarter of 2025 compared with the same period a year earlier. The biggest job gains were recorded in community and social services (46,000), construction (35,000) and finance (32,000).

Jobs declined in trade (98,000), manufacturing (61,000) and mining (5,000). A sharp loss of 293,000 informal jobs also kept overall unemployment high. Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke said many informal traders were removed from Johannesburg’s streets ahead of the G20 leaders’ summit in November, contributing to the decline.

Further, improved electricity supply and easing logistics bottlenecks have helped stabilise business conditions . Analysts expect inflation to moderate this year and next, with Morgan Stanley projecting possible interest rate cuts beginning next month and forecasting stronger growth in 2026. 

The International Monetary Fund estimates South Africa’s economy will expand by 1.4% this year, slightly up from 1.3% in 2025,  a modest improvement but still below levels needed to significantly reduce unemployment. An expanded definition of unemployment, which includes discouraged job seekers, edged down to 42.1%.

A total of 68 African nationals have been repatriated from Ghana’s Ashanti Region to their respective countries following court rulings over criminal activities, including involvement in the Q-Net scam and prostitution. Ashanti Regional Minister Dr Frank Amoakohene announced in a Facebook post on December 18, 2025, that those deported included 42 Nigerians, 13 Cameroonians, seven Beninese, three Ivorians, and three Burkinabe nationals. He said the repatriations were carried out in line with due process and commended the Ghana Immigration Service for its professionalism, diligence, and collaboration with the courts and other security agencies in enforcing immigration laws and maintaining public safety.

Ghana to receive additional $385m from IMF programme

Ghana is set to receive an additional $385 million under its Extended Credit Facility programme after the Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund completed the fifth review of the arrangement. The disbursement brings total IMF support under the 39-month, $3 billion programme approved in May 2023 to about $2.8 billion. In a statement issued from Washington, DC, the IMF said Ghana’s performance under the programme had been generally satisfactory, with all quantitative targets for the review met. The Fund noted that economic growth through September 2025 exceeded expectations, inflation had declined into the Bank of Ghana’s target range, and the external sector strengthened due to robust gold and cocoa exports. While acknowledging progress in financial sector reforms and debt restructuring, the IMF cautioned that vulnerabilities persist in state-owned banks and called for stronger governance and supervision.

Youth unemployment flagged as national security concern

New data from the Ghana Statistical Service show that about 1.3 million young people aged 15 to 24 were not in employment, education, or training in the third quarter of 2025, representing 21.5 per cent of that age group. Reacting to the figures on a local radio channel, Citi FM, on December 18, Youth Development and Employment Minister George Opare Addo described the situation as alarming and warned that rising youth unemployment poses a serious national security threat. He said the John Mahama-led administration would intensify efforts to reduce unemployment and re-engage young people in productive economic activities as part of broader measures to safeguard national stability.

Ghana deploys troops abroad amid regional and international crises

Ghana has deployed military personnel to Jamaica and Benin in moves that signal an expansion of its South-South cooperation and regional security role. At a send-off parade in Accra on December 17, President John Mahama said the 14 Engineer Brigade deployed to Jamaica would focus on reconstruction rather than combat following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, which killed more than 45 people and displaced hundreds of thousands. Ghana is also contributing about 100 personnel to the ECOWAS Standby Force in Benin after an attempted coup earlier in December. While authorities in Benin say the situation is under control, Ghanaian troops remain part of efforts to safeguard constitutional order, even as the deployments have sparked domestic debate over costs, priorities, and executive authority.

Ghana signs WTO law advisory accession protocol in Geneva

Ghana has signed the accession protocol to the Advisory Centre on WTO Law, gaining access to specialised legal support for trade disputes. The agreement was signed on December 18, 2025, in Geneva by Ghana’s Ambassador to the WTO, Emmanuel Asiedu Antwi, making Ghana one of 39 developing countries eligible for discounted legal services and training under the centre. The Advisory Centre provides confidential legal advice, representation in dispute settlement proceedings, and capacity-building programmes. While officials say the move will strengthen Ghana’s ability to defend its trade interests, the signing comes amid longstanding concerns about the country’s regulatory capacity and compliance with WTO notification obligations, highlighted during its most recent Trade Policy Review.

President John Mahama, addressing the tragedy, described the deaths as "a heartbreaking loss for the entire nation."

“The tragic news is that I have been informed by the military that six young women, who simply sought an opportunity to serve their nation, lost their lives in this heartbreaking incident. We are praying for the 12 others who remain in critical condition,” Mahama said.

Recruitment exercise suspended

In response to the tragedy, President Mahama has directed the Armed Forces to temporarily suspend the ongoing nationwide recruitment exercise.

“I have asked the leadership of the Armed Forces to temporarily halt the recruitment exercise and conduct a full investigation. We must take a fresh approach to ensure such unfortunate incidents do not happen again,” he added .

The Ghana Armed Forces confirmed the incident in an official statement, expressing deep regret and announcing the suspension of the Accra leg of the recruitment exercise.

"The Ghana Armed Forces deeply regrets to inform the general public that due to the fatal incident that occurred at the El-Wak Sports Stadium this morning... the exercise in Greater Accra has been temporarily suspended. This is to allow for additional measures to ensure a seamless exercise," the statement read in part.

A Board of Inquiry has been constituted to investigate the events that led to the stampede.

Calls for safer recruitment measures

President Mahama emphasised the need for improved crowd management and safety planning for all future public recruitment or national mobilisation events.

Meanwhile, the injured receive treatment at the 37 Military Hospital in Accra.

The military has assured the public that recruitment activities in the remaining 15 regions will continue under enhanced safety protocols.

Seme warned that any government seen to be relying on opaque conditional loans would face relentless protests. “We are not ready as a population to support another regime that will go back, banking on hopes of being given money by the IMF under unclear conditions … We are not with you, protests will always be here,” he added.

Salim Mghanga, a local resident, accused successive administrations of borrowing and then siphoning funds offshore. “They borrow money from these institutions, then they steal it, take it back to London and Switzerland, leaving the people wallowing in poverty,” he said.

Fadhili Owino, another Nairobi resident, described international lenders as “business-oriented” and argued their programmes ignore the livelihoods of ordinary people. “IMF & World Bank don’t understand the reality of the situation in Kenya… They only give out loans because they are business-oriented,” he said, adding calls for greater self-reliance. “Africa is the richest continent in the world, yet it is the poorest in the world… We should exploit our mineral resources for the benefit of our people.”

“This is a generation that feels lost, disconnected, and unsupported,” said one researcher. “Our data proves that when young people feel seen and guided, real change happens.”

South Africa has one of the highest youth unemployment rates globally. As of 2024, 37.1% of South Africans aged 15 to 24, which is about 3.4 million individuals, were not in employment, education, or training (NEET), according to Statistics South Africa .

The risk of long-term exclusion is severe, often leading to poor mental health , social marginalisation, and dependence on social grants.

The BPS programme’s methodology included structured coaching, goal-setting, referrals to services like counselling or childcare, and continuous check-ins. The focus was not just employment but holistic wellbeing.

“I didn’t know where to start. It was a blank page,” said a 21-year-old woman who completed two sessions. A young man added: “Before this, I didn’t think I could do anything meaningful with my life… Coaching helped me feel more optimistic.”

According to the research team , 40% of participants accessed learning or income-generating opportunities, while others reported marked improvements in anxiety, emotional distress, and self-esteem.

The programme also revealed stark gender disparities, with only 9% of young men rating peer support as low, compared to 24% of young women. Access to community resources, including health and psychosocial services, was widely reported as lacking.

The findings suggest that skills training alone is insufficient, but broader support systems, covering mental health, access to services, and mentorship, are essential for youth to transition successfully into work or education.

Countries across the Global South face similar youth unemployment challenges, and this research offers a scalable, community-based model. “This is not just a South African issue,” said one policy expert. “It’s a blueprint for any country trying to break the cycle of youth joblessness.”

Disclaimer: The image for the article was AI-generated

Between October 1, 2024, and June 13, 2025, authorities inspected over 31,000 foreign workers, revealing widespread violations:

Thailand classifies certain occupations as entirely or conditionally restricted to safeguard its workforce , but according to the ministry’s spokesperson, Phumipat Mueanchan, many employers bypass legal channels, and enforcement has been lax in some regions.

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) estimates 3.9 million migrant workers are legally employed in Thailand, and the country remains a major destination for regional labour.

Thai authorities are under increasing pressure to balance economic reliance on foreign workers with the protection of domestic jobs amid slowing growth and rising automation.

The Labour Ministry has vowed to step up inspections and penalise violators, including employers, while urging businesses to comply with regulations and seek formal permits when hiring foreign staff.

A High Court judge in Zimbabwe on Wednesday, March 12 adjourned the case of journalist Blessed Mhlanga, who has been in custody since Feb. 24 over alleged incitement linked to interviews with a war veteran-turned-politician critical of the president. According to VOA , Mhlanga’s lawyers requested bail, but Justice Gibson Mandaza said more time was needed to review the case. His lawyer, Chris Mhike, said they await the court's next move, adding it would be “improper” to comment while proceedings are ongoing.

Hanke ranks Zimbabwe’s ZIG second worst in the world

Renowned economist Steve Hanke has ranked Zimbabwe’s ZiG currency as the second worst after Venezuela’s Bolivar. His analysis shows the ZiG lost 50% of its value against the US dollar over the past 10 months, largely due to inflation and lack of public trust. As reported by the New Zimbabwe , Though initially pegged at US$1: ZiG2.50, it now trades between ZiG33 and ZiG40 on the black market, far from the official US$1: ZiG26 rate. The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe insists the currency remains viable, despite limited use in key sectors like fuel and passport payments.

Thousands jobless as Trump cuts $522 million aid to Zimbabwe

Thousands of Zimbabwean NGO and civil society workers have lost their jobs after major U.S. funding cuts under the Trump administration. Key sectors affected include HIV programmes, the arts, and humanitarian aid. The U.S. slashed 83% of USAID’s global budget, ending around 5,200 projects. In Zimbabwe alone, $388 million in ongoing USAID-funded initiatives have been abruptly halted, excluding indirect support from agencies like the World Food Programme, Zimeye reports.

Zimbabwe supply chain compromised by coerced cross-border drivers

Zimbabwean authorities are cracking down on truck drivers coerced by smugglers to transport contraband inland, putting transporters at risk of being penalized for carrying illegal goods. Freight News reports Mike Fitzmaurice of the Transit Assistance Bureau said smuggling often occurs at border points like Beitbridge, where drivers are bribed, and goods are sometimes brought in by people crossing the river on foot. He noted that while buses were once used for smuggling, authorities have since tightened controls.

Zimbabwe records 49 human-crocodile conflicts in two months, 9 killed, 11 injured

At least nine people have died and 11 others were injured in a surge of crocodile attacks over the past two months, according to the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks). The agency also reported the loss of 44 cattle and 60 goats in 49 cases of human-crocodile conflict. ZimParks has urged communities to stay vigilant near water bodies, especially during the rainy season, reports the New Zimbabwe .

Inflation plays a crucial role in determining average hourly wages. When inflation rises, the purchasing power of consumers decreases, and employers may need to adjust wages to maintain employees' standard of living. Eurostat data reveals that countries with high inflation rates, such as Hungary and Poland, have experienced significant growth in average hourly wages (€12.8 and €11.9 respectively) between 2023 and 2024.

Unemployment rates also have a substantial impact on average hourly wages. In countries with low unemployment rates, such as Germany (3.5%) and the Netherlands (3.7%), average hourly wages have increased steadily to €31.6 and €33 respectively in 2024. On the contrary, countries with high unemployment rates, such as Greece (9.50%) and Spain (10.61%), have experienced slower wage growth and currently stand at €12.6 and €18.2 respectively.

Another essential factor influencing average hourly wages is GDP growth. Countries with robust GDP growth, such as Ireland and Malta, have seen significant increases in average hourly wages at €33.3 and €14 respectively.

Although these figures look significant, the constant pooling of funds by the EU and the hefty tariffs planned for the region by the Trump administration will likely subject these figures to change.

John Baraka, a 33-year-old unemployed resident, expressed his hopes for a better future: "You know, we have no choice. The people of Bukavu expect, above all, to see improvements in our lives - jobs and economic growth. We want young people to have opportunities and for everyone's living conditions to improve."

Similarly, Jean-Claude Mazombo, a father of six, emphasised the need for change: "We expect the new leaders to bring real transformation, unlike what we experienced in the past. We struggled with unemployment, but we hope the current authorities will listen to us and provide opportunities."

Another resident, Fiston, echoed these sentiments, stating, "We hope to see changes in all sectors. Young graduates need jobs. We want our education to count so that we can support our families."

UN Security Council Calls on Rwanda to Halt Support for M23

Meanwhile, as rebels continue their advance in eastern DR Congo, the United Nations Security Council has, for the first time, called on Rwanda to cease its backing of the M23 group and to put an end to the violence. UN experts estimate that the group has received support from approximately 4,000 Rwandan soldiers, the AFP reports.

The rapid territorial expansion of M23 has forced thousands of people to flee their homes. The rebel group now controls significant portions of eastern DR Congo, a region known for its wealth of natural resources. Fighters seized the South Kivu provincial capital, Bukavu, on Sunday, just weeks after taking control of Goma, the capital of North Kivu and the largest city in the country's eastern region.

The rate hovers around 6.3% in the euro area, and it has remained remarkably stable over recent months despite broader economic headwinds. This stability reflects a recovery from past crises and the cautious optimism of policymakers who have implemented a range of structural reforms and targeted fiscal measures.

The aggregate numbers, however, mask a diverse set of outcomes on a country-by-country basis. In nations like Czechia, unemployment is remarkably low—hovering near 2.8%—underscoring a robust and competitive economy.

In stark contrast, countries such as Ukraine continue to experience high unemployment rates, which have reached around 14.20%. These discrepancies are the product of varied economic structures, industrial bases, and unique historical challenges.

A particularly pressing issue is youth unemployment. The figures for those under 25 remain stubbornly high. In November 2024, the youth unemployment rate stood at about 15.3% in the EU and around 15.0% in the euro area. This gap highlights a generational challenge: while overall employment has improved, young job seekers continue to face a tougher battle in entering the workforce.

Policymakers warn that without targeted initiatives—such as enhanced vocational training and better integration programs—the potential of Europe’s youth may remain underutilized.

Moreover, the differing trajectories among EU countries underscore the importance of tailored policy responses. For instance, while northern and central European economies benefit from high productivity and advanced industrial sectors, southern economies continue to rely heavily on tourism and construction—a reliance that has historically contributed to higher unemployment rates.

The data from 2024 suggest that Europe is on a cautious path toward recovery. Improvements in labour market indicators provide a glimmer of hope, yet challenges remain.

To sustain progress, European governments must continue to invest in education, retraining programs, and infrastructure—measures that will not only boost short-term employment but also enhance long-term competitiveness.

Namibia's indoor hockey women's team achieved a significant milestone by securing their spot in the World Cup after a dominant 4-1 victory over Croatia, resulting in a comprehensive 2-0 series win. Coach Shayne Cormack noted that the team's performance showcased marked improvement and effective teamwork, especially in the wake of a previous disappointing draw. As they prepare for their opening match against Australia, the team expresses confidence despite Australia’s superior ranking. Key player Kiana Cormack highlights the substantial growth among team members, conveying optimism about their prospects for advancement in the tournament. The team's strategy includes adapting to a more physical style of play, as demonstrated in their series against Croatia, Namibian reports.

Educational investments

In a moving development, the National Arts Council of Namibia (NACN) has allocated a significant sum of N$1,526,032.70 (around $80,000) in bursaries to 36 promising students, underscoring its commitment to nurturing the nation’s artistic and cultural landscape. Among the 116 applications received, selected students will benefit from financial assistance to pursue studies in various fields, including game design, digital art, graphic design, and arts management. According to Musicinafrica , this initiative is part of NACN's broader mission to enhance educational avenues and cultivate a skilled workforce that aligns with Namibia's sustainable development objectives. The funding emanates from the National Arts Fund, aimed at bolstering both contemporary and traditional arts, particularly within underrepresented communities.

Closure of roads

In infrastructure news, Namibia's Roads Authority has enacted a temporary closure of District Road 3522 (Namalubi–Kalumba) within the Zambezi Region owing to extensive damage inflicted by heavy rainfall, with no immediate timeline established for reopening. Other routes—DR3510, DR3512, and DR3572—are reportedly navigable but present hazardous conditions due to adverse weather, Attatravel reports. Stakeholders, including travellers and tourism operators, are urged to monitor updates actively, reconsider their travel plans for safety, and ensure adequate insurance coverage during these ongoing wet conditions. Future reports are anticipated as repair initiatives are undertaken.

Women’s recognition

On an international scale, Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, the CEO of Merck Foundation and the pioneering force behind the "More Than a Mother" campaign, has been accoladed for the sixth successive year as one of the 100 Most Influential African Women in 2024 by Avance Media. Her recognition stems from her impactful leadership in advancing women's empowerment, education, and reforming healthcare across the African continent. Dr. Kelej prioritises collaborative efforts with African governments and First Ladies to champion women's rights and combat infertility stigma, Socialnews reports. With over 2,100 scholarships provided for critical medical studies, her interactive community engagement promotes both health awareness and local initiatives. Dr. Kelej’s active leadership style earns her high regard among African leaders, healthcare professionals, and youth, serving as an inspiration for upcoming generations of women and change agents.

Unemployment rate

The 2023 Labour Force Survey in Namibia has unveiled pressing issues related to unemployment and income inequality. The report indicates that merely 46.2% of the working-age population is engaged in the labour market, revealing a concerning gender disparity (51.1% for men compared to 41.9% for women) and elevated youth unemployment rates, with 41.9% identified as NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training). The unemployment rate stands at 36.9% based on the 2023 definitions, escalating to 54.8% when applying the broader criteria used in 2018. This illustrates a high prevalence of underemployment and individuals who have become discouraged in their job search. Furthermore, a notable 55.4% of those employed earn less than N$5,000 monthly, with a mere 2.6% exceeding earnings of N$40,000. Namibian reports that the data highlights low participation in the labour force (46.2%), particularly in rural locales (33.4%), entwined with a predominant reliance on wage employment (84.7% of the workforce). Significant regional disparities persist, with Kavango East and West exhibiting the highest unemployment rates, surpassing 52%. The findings point to a mismatch between educational qualifications and job availability, thus fostering worker discouragement. There is an urgent need for targeted strategies to stimulate job creation and bridge the skills gap, thereby fostering economic growth and stability.

Linnea Shaetonhodi, a resident of Windhoek said "I’ve been voting since 89 (1989, the year of Namibia's first parliamentary elections) and I know my voice counts, and I want to appeal to the youth: go vote, go in your numbers, you are the future of this country."

"If you vote, the president or maybe the party you will vote for can change things. It’s not in a day. Rome was not built in a day," Isaskar Eiseb also added.

Apart from the citizens, President Nangolo Mbumba has been at the forefront of encouraging voter turnout.

In a recent address , he emphasised the importance of upholding democratic traditions by turning out in large numbers to vote for the leaders and parties of their choice. He urged voters to do so peacefully and respectfully, as exhibited during the campaign rallies.

"I am pleased with the manner in which leaders of political parties and Namibians at large conducted themselves during the campaign period throughout our country. The climate in which you campaigned and freely expressed your views in favour of your political parties is a demonstration of the strength of the democratic foundations of the Namibian House. I therefore wish to thank all political parties, their leaders, supporters and sympathisers, and all the relevant stakeholders in the country for the successful conclusion of all the electoral activities ahead of national voting day," Mbumba.

The youth vote is particularly crucial in this election, as young people make up more than half of the electorate. Political analysts believe that the turnout of young voters could significantly influence the election outcome.

"Young people are disproportionately affected by unemployment and poverty," says Rui Tyitende, a lecturer at the University of Namibia. "Their participation is essential for a meaningful change."

It was as if she knew her future roles when she earned degrees from institutions in Zambia and the United Kingdom in Political Science and International Relations.

Being a loyal member of SWAPO from age 14, Netumbo has served in ministerial positions since the early years of Namibia's independence from South Africa in 1990 including Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of Environment and Tourism, and Deputy Prime Minister.

In 2017, she was elected as the Vice President of SWAPO, making her the first woman to hold this position. Her election as the party's vice president positioned her as a key figure in Namibian politics and set the stage for her presidential candidacy.

One of her notable achievements as minister is the Combating of Domestic Violence Act, which she introduced to the National Assembly in 2002. Despite facing criticism and jokes from male MPs, she successfully navigated the Bill through parliament.

Consistently advocating for gender equality, she called for a 30 percent representation of women among elected leaders, acknowledging that the 50 percent target may be unrealistic.

As a presidential candidate, Nandi-Ndaitwah has promised to address critical issues such as unemployment, particularly among the youth, and to promote economic growth. She has pledged to create more jobs and tackle the 20% unemployment rate for young people and graduates.

Her vision includes spending approximately 85 billion Namibian dollars ($4.7 billion) over the next five years to create more than 500,000 jobs

Women ruling at the apex of government across the globe have taken prominence in the 21st century.

If elected on Wednesday, November 27, Nandi-Ndaitwah would join the ranks of pioneering African women leaders like Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia and Joyce Banda of Malawi.

Despite her impressive credentials and 'juicy' campaign messages, Nandi-Ndaitwah faces significant challenges of SWAPO being ousted.

The party's dominance in Namibian politics has dwindled in recent years, partly due to allegations of corruption and economic mismanagement. The party lost its two-thirds majority in the National Assembly for the first time since 1994 during the 2019 elections.

Namibia's ruling party, SWAPO, faces a challenging election on November 27, as analysts suggest voters may be ready to oust it, similar to recent shifts in southern Africa's political landscape. Following significant losses by the ANC in South Africa and the Botswana Democratic Party, SWAPO's long-standing hold on power is at risk, especially among youth voters disillusioned by high unemployment and poor economic performance. According to ZimLive , unemployment for 15-34-year-olds in Namibia was estimated at 46% in 2018, prompting younger citizens to seek change through digital platforms and modernised political figures. With regional discontent over unfulfilled promises and corruption within liberation-era parties, Namibians may be inspired to vote for change, causing SWAPO to be increasingly nervous about its prospects.

QatarEnergy to acquire additional stakes in offshore blocks

QatarEnergy has agreed to acquire additional stakes in two offshore blocks in Namibia’s Orange Basin from TotalEnergies, increasing its interest in block 2913B to 35.25% and in block 2912 to 33.025%. TotalEnergies will retain a 45.25% stake in block 2913B and 42.48% in block 2912. The transaction is pending customary approvals. QatarEnergy aims to enhance its presence in Namibia's upstream sector, focusing on the development of the Venus discovery. In related news, QatarEnergy and ExxonMobil's joint venture received a three-year extension for the Golden Pass LNG plant in Texas and is negotiating a 15-year LNG supply agreement with Kuwait Petroleum Corporation, Offshore Technology reports.

General elections on Wednesday

Namibia is set to vote on Wednesday, November 27, in its most competitive election yet for the ruling SWAPO party, which has governed for 34 years. A victory for SWAPO candidate Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah would make her the first female president, while a loss would mark the first transition of power since independence in 1990. SWAPO's support has declined due to high unemployment, corruption allegations, and inequality, dropping from 87% in 2014 to 56% in 2019. Panduleni Itula, a former SWAPO member and leader of the Independent Patriots for Change, is the main opposition candidate. As reported by The Strait Times , political analysts suggest the election outcome will depend heavily on young voters turnout, who represent over half the electorate and are likely to favour the opposition. Namibia faces significant poverty and inequality, ranking second globally in income inequality. As SWAPO faces challenges similar to other independence-era parties, the election's fairness has been generally upheld by observers.

First female president expected on Wednesday

Namibia's Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is on track to potentially become the country's first female president in the upcoming elections, with over 1.4 million registered voters and 15 political parties competing. She leads in early polls from foreign missions, representing the South West Africa People's Organization (SWAPO), which has governed since 1990 but lost its two-thirds majority in 2019 due to allegations of corruption. Political analysts warn SWAPO needs to engage younger voters disenchanted with historical narratives. Nandi-Ndaitwah, 72, aims to address high unemployment and improve women's rights if elected. The election follows significant political shifts in southern Africa, where traditional parties are facing challenges, reports VOA .

Survey shows 45% of children sexually, emotionally abused

A survey reveals that nearly 40% of Namibian girls and 45% of boys have faced physical, sexual, or emotional violence during childhood. The 2019 Violence Against Children and Youth survey highlights the widespread issue of sexual and emotional abuse in Namibia, with many survivors lacking necessary care. Only half of those experiencing physical violence report it, and just 15% have access to support. The World Health Organisation (WHO) emphasised the urgent need for stronger child protection measures in a report released on Wednesday, November 20, according to The Namibian .

In this case, according to the International Labour Organisation, self-employment is gaining massive momentum globally.

According to data from the World Economic Forum and the International Labour Organisation, here are the top 10 countries with the highest self-employment rates:

Niger - 95.1%

Ethiopia - 85.6%

Afghanistan - 84.3%

Nigeria - 80.6%

India - 76.1%

Bangladesh - 59.0%

Pakistan - 55.6%

Vietnam - 53.7%

Indonesia - 52.6%

Colombia - 50.9%

The Italian Minister of Labour and Social Policies, Marina Elvira Calderone, is scheduled to visit Tunis on November 4, 2024. This visit aims to enhance cooperation between Italy and Tunisia, focusing on the development of regular migratory routes, Nova News reports. This will benefit both the countries and migrant workers through the enhancement of their professional skillsets.

Saudi-Arabia-Tunisia relations

Saudi Arabia is poised to strengthen industrial cooperation with Tunisia through various joint ventures, as revealed by the Deputy Minister of Industry, Khalil bin Salamah. The emphasis will be on harmonising industrial policies rather than confining efforts to specific product manufacturing. This approach intends to establish a collaborative platform that spans multiple industries, including pharmaceuticals and automotive sectors, with potential expansions into phosphates and energy. Tunisia's Minister of Industry, Fatma Thabet Chiboub, underscored the nation’s distinctive mining resources and proficient workforce as attractive incentives for Saudi investment, particularly in the automotive components and pharmaceutical domains. Both parties stressed the necessity for deeper regional integration among Arab nations to fully exploit investment and cooperative prospects, the African Manager reports.

Trade and economic interconnections

Tunisia is making strides towards becoming a major trade hub in Africa, with ambitions to establish a trans-Saharan trade corridor that connects North Africa with sub-Saharan markets. During the "Regional Export Mornings" forum, Tunisia’s Minister for Trade introduced initiatives aimed at creating a "Libya-Tunisia-Africa" corridor, facilitating connectivity between Tunisia and Libya to landlocked nations such as Chad, Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, and the Central African Republic. This corridor is conceived to enhance trade and economic interconnections across the continent. Proposed plans involve the modernisation of customs procedures, the enhancement of the Easy Export programme, the revision of foreign trade laws, and the improvement of distribution networks to elevate export levels and attract investment. The Lybian Express reports that this initiative is part of Tunisia's comprehensive strategy to affirm its role as a pivotal player in regional trade.

Unemployment rates

The United Nations "World Social Report 2024" indicates a substantial increase in unemployment rates, with 22 countries registering at least a one percentage point increase from 2018 to 2023. Tunisia, classified as a lower-middle-income country, experienced a 2.3 percentage point rise in unemployment, ranking tenth among these nations. According to the African Manager , this alarming trend is attributed to several factors including the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, ongoing conflicts such as the Ukraine war, and climate-related calamities. Additionally, the report highlights a spike in food insecurity rates, with Tunisia recording alarming figures ranging between 20% and 30%, reflecting an urgent need for interventions.

Imprisonment

Tunisian commentator Sonia Dahmani has been sentenced to two years imprisonment due to her remarks regarding the treatment of sub-Saharan migrants within the country. Her sentencing falls under a contentious anti-fake news law, which critics argue is being exploited by authorities as a tool to quell dissent against President Kais Saied, who has intensified actions against his political adversaries since his assumption of office, ABC News reports.

In countries like Afghanistan and Lebanon, suppression from the Taliban and daily airstrikes from Israel respectively make the citizens the unhappiest on the planet.

Here are the world's top 8 unhappy countries:

Sonko, who came to power in March alongside President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, emphasised that while they suspected issues within the country's finances, the true extent of the damage was far worse than anticipated.

The new government, which ran on promises of social justice, sovereignty, and Pan-Africanism, faces the challenge of tackling a struggling economy marked by high unemployment and rising living costs.

Sonko warned that Senegalese citizens would need to make "extremely significant efforts" in the coming years to stabilise the economy, with the Minister of the Economy outlining key areas of reform, including taxation, AFP reports.

Sonko further intimated that his government has vowed to thoroughly investigate the alleged corruption and take action to restore fiscal responsibility in Senegal.