Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has urged Zimbabwean nationals to pursue employment within their own communities rather than in South Africa, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing South African workers for municipal contracts and job opportunities.
Addressing supporters at the EFF’s Siyabonga Rally in Seshego on August 16, Malema highlighted the country’s critical youth unemployment crisis—currently at 66.5%—and underscored the need to safeguard job opportunities for citizens first.
“We’re not saying Zimbabweans shouldn’t work, but those jobs should be provided by their own local councils,” Malema stated. He referenced cities such as Harare as areas where Zimbabweans should focus their employment efforts instead of looking to South Africa.
Malema said the EFF was committed to advancing policies that ensure municipal tenders and other local economic opportunities benefit South African citizens, particularly the youth.
His latest remarks represent a notable shift from his 2022 stance, where he had encouraged South African employers to also consider hiring fellow Africans, especially those from nations facing economic or political instability. At the time, he argued for pan-African solidarity, though he still maintained that South Africans should be given first consideration.
In Seshego, however, Malema’s message centered on the urgency of protecting domestic jobs amid mounting economic pressure. His comments are expected to ignite further conversation as debates around migration, employment, and access to public services remain a flashpoint in South African politics.
He reiterated that while the influx of Zimbabwean migrants continues due to limited opportunities back home, it is ultimately up to Zimbabwean municipalities to generate jobs for their residents—not South Africa.
ALSO READ : Ghetto Teacher Emerges as Contender for 2025 Harare Zimdancehall Cup Clash
