The latest employment statistics from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) reveal a troubling trend for domestic workers, highlighting a sector under increasing pressure even as some short-term growth is registered.
While the second quarter of 2025 saw an increase of 21 000 domestic worker positions between April and June, translating to a 2.5% rise from the previous quarter, the year-on-year figures tell a different story.
In fact, this sector has contracted by 4 000 positions or 0.5% since the same period last year, illustrating a decline that has persisted beyond quarter-on-quarter fluctuations.
In total, South Africa has permanently lost around 160 000 domestic worker jobs since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, equating to a 17% decrease in the workforce overall, as per a report from BusinessTech.
This significant loss raises alarms, particularly for the many women employed in this field who earn less than R5 000 a month, a demographic now facing severe financial stresses and challenges.
The Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) expressed deep concern regarding the findings of the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) for the crisis that’s unfolding in the employment landscape.
The report indicates a rise in the country’s official unemployment rate, which surged from 32.9% to 33.2% during the same period, underscoring the ongoing struggle for many families across the nation.
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According to the latest QLFS, employment figures did increase slightly, with a rise of 19 000 jobs to a total of 16.8 million; however, this was overshadowed by the unfortunate reality that unemployment rose by 140 000, bringing the total to 8.4 million.
Compounding the issue, the number of discouraged work-seekers dropped by only 0.8%, and the economically inactive population fell by 28 000, suggesting that those wanting to return to work increasingly find themselves without opportunities.
The expanded unemployment rate saw a slight decline from 43.1% to 42.9%, hinting at marginal improvements yet not enough to alter the economic landscape.
In response to these statistics, FEDUSA insists on the necessity for more robust action to foster job creation, support small businesses, enhance skills training, and attract investment.
They emphasize that a stronger economy can emerge from an increase in decent work opportunities for all citizens.
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