South Africa’s Minister of Employment and Labour, Thulas Nxesi, has launched a series of training programs in the Chris Hani District Municipality to combat unemployment. These projects, funded by the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) through its Labour Activation Programme (LAP), aim to reduce poverty and unemployment by providing training, reskilling and entrepreneurship opportunities to jobseekers while preserving existing jobs and offering access to markets.

The LAP’s Goal

The LAP targets over 7,000 residents from various municipalities in Chris Hani District. It has partnered with several service providers to carry out reskilling of the unemployed and enhance entrepreneurship opportunities in the region. [Intsika Yethu Business Forum](https://capetown.today/media-accreditation-and-international-cooperation-for-the-15th-brics-summit), Brandrive, and Nnite are some of the service providers that will offer learnerships, skills programs, and apprenticeships in areas such as systems development, animal production, and building and civil construction. The duration of these programs will range from six months to two years.

The Intsika Yethu Business Forum

In collaboration with the Kingdom of the Western Thembuland, the Intsika Yethu Business Forum seeks to uplift communities within the Intsika Yethu Local Municipality and boost the area’s economy. Transkei Skills Project Consortium, DICLA Training & Projects, and Londmarx Group are other service providers that offer expertise in apprenticeships, learnerships, and skills programs.

Registration Process

Youth unemployment in the Chris Hani District Municipality is a significant problem that the government aims to address through these projects. Unemployed youths in the area were registered and recruited from the Department of Employment and Labour’s Employment Services of South Africa (ESSA) database to access opportunities for reskilling. This registration process will promote self-employment and revitalize the local economy.

Dignitaries Expected

Several dignitaries are expected to attend the launch of these projects, including His Majesty King Dalimvula Matanzima of Western Thembuland, Eastern Cape Province Premier Oscar Mabuyane, and UIF Commissioner Teboho Maruping. The UIF provides temporary relief to unemployed individuals and is a public entity within the Department of Employment and Labour.

Government Commitment

The government’s commitment to tackling unemployment and promoting economic growth in Chris Hani District Municipality is evident in these training programs. By partnering with various service providers and prioritizing market-relevant skills, the LAP aims to equip South African citizens with the necessary tools for success in the workforce. With time, effort, and patience, these initiatives hold the potential to change the lives of thousands of people in the region and contribute to the overall growth and development of the nation.