Eastern Cape youth call for action on unemployment in the MTBPS

The Eastern Cape (EC) continues to grapple with an unemployment rate of more than 47%, while youth unemployment exceeds 50%.

Residents are hoping the 2026 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement will introduce measures to stimulate economic growth, attract investment and create jobs.

South African Youth Council Provincial Executive Member Zikhona Matyila says the budget should prioritise funding and mentorship for young entrepreneurs, alongside investment in basic services.

MID-TERM BUDGET | The South African Youth Council in KuGompo, Eastern Cape, says the 2026 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement must drive investment and job creation to tackle youth unemployment. https://t.co/tp36jGbZtW — SABC News (@SABCNews) October 21, 2026 She says reliable water, electricity and roads could help businesses expand, create factories and open up employment opportunities for young people.

“We want him to assist young entrepreneurs by funding them, making them enter the market and mentoring them.

Secondly, we would want the minister to fund basic services so that we could have more jobs.

If water, electricity and roads are being serviced, then it means more factories are open, and young people can get jobs from there.” RELATED VIDEO | Hopes for some relief in tomorrow’s medium-term budget policy statement