MIDDELBURG – Addressing unemployment requires concerted efforts from all role players with similar objectives.
The effects of unemployment, such as crime, drugs, and alcohol abuse, to name a few, appear to be taking their toll on the communities of Rockdale, Nasareth, and Extension 24.
Thulani Mthimunye, chairperson of Ukhezolunye Community Empowerment (UCE), believes that organising an Open Employment Day (OED) is one of many attempts aimed at tackling the unemployment challenge that every community is grappling with.
He says the OED is a community-focused job fair aimed at connecting job seekers with potential employers, adding that it will foster economic growth and strengthen the local workforce within the Steve Tshwete municipal boundaries.
According to Mthimunye, the OED, scheduled to take place on 27 February 2025 at Extension 24 Sport Ground from 9 am to 5 pm, will feature employer booths, workshops and seminars, skills assessments, and networking opportunities. Every member of the community from age 16 upwards is invited to participate in the event.
Mthimunye also mentions that invitations have been extended to local businesses, the chamber of commerce, training institutions, and community organisations. “We encourage businesses of all sizes to participate as employers, and we seek the support of the chamber of commerce in mobilising local businesses,” he explains.
“We invite vocational schools, colleges, and universities to participate, and we want to engage with community-based organisations working with job seekers. We are confident that Open Employment Day will be a valuable platform for connecting job seekers with employment opportunities and contributing to the economic development of the Steve Tshwete local municipality.”
UCE is a registered non-profit organisation dedicated to fostering sustainable economic growth and social upliftment within underserved communities. “Inspired by the Freedom Charter’s principle of ‘bonke bayodla nga khezolunye’, meaning ‘all shall share in the wealth equally’, UCE strives to create a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive,” Mthimunye says. “Our mission is to empower individuals and communities through sustainable economic development, fostering self-reliance, and creating opportunities for social mobility.”
