At the EFF’s Siyabonga Rally in Seshego on August 16, Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema delivered a striking message on employment and migration. With South Africa facing a youth unemployment rate of 66.5%, Malema urged Zimbabweans to seek work opportunities in their own municipalities, such as Harare, while stressing that South Africans must be prioritized for local tenders and job opportunities.
A New Stance on Employment
Malema’s remarks signal a notable shift from his 2022 position, when he encouraged employers in South Africa to consider Zimbabweans and other African nationals for jobs, while still maintaining preference for locals. This time, his emphasis leaned more strongly on protecting opportunities for South African citizens amid an escalating unemployment crisis.
“We are not saying Zimbabweans should not be given jobs, but they must get jobs from their own municipalities,” he told the crowd, underscoring his call for municipalities in Zimbabwe to create sustainable employment for their citizens.
The Context of Rising Unemployment
South Africa’s youth unemployment rate continues to be one of the highest in the world, hovering at 66.5%. This economic reality has fueled debates about migration, job security, and resource allocation. Malema’s statements tap into growing frustrations among unemployed South Africans who feel increasingly left behind in their own economy.
Malema urges Zimbabweans to seek jobs at home, prioritizes South African employment
— MDN NEWS (@MDNnewss) August 17, 2025
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has urged Zimbabweans to seek employment in their own municipalities, such as Harare, instead of South Africa, while stressing that local… pic.twitter.com/Sh8xi2hZqJ
For many, the EFF leader’s remarks resonate as a pragmatic call to focus on domestic job creation, while others view the shift as a political recalibration ahead of upcoming elections.
Balancing Pan-Africanism and Local Priorities
Malema has long been known for his pan-African rhetoric, often urging unity across African nations. His latest stance suggests an attempt to balance that broader vision with the immediate economic struggles South Africa faces. By framing the issue around municipal-level job creation in Zimbabwe, Malema highlights the need for governments across the continent to invest in their people and reduce dependency on migration for survival.
Public Reaction
Malema’s comments sparked wide discussion across social media platforms. Some applauded his firm defense of South African workers, while others pointed out the contradiction with his earlier statements in support of employing foreign nationals. The debate reflects a wider tension in South Africa: balancing compassion for African solidarity with the urgency of tackling domestic unemployment.
Looking Ahead
As South Africa’s unemployment crisis deepens, political leaders will continue to be measured by their ability to address job scarcity. For Malema, this latest stance may strengthen his appeal among job-seeking youth while challenging him to remain consistent in his pan-African ideals.
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