The North West province has recorded the highest unemployment rate in South Africa, surpassing the Eastern Cape. This information is based on the quarterly employment statistics released by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) for the first quarter. Over 300,000 jobs were lost during the first three months of the year, resulting in a one percentage point increase in unemployment, reaching 32.9%. According to Statistician General Risenga Maluleke, the North West province now has the highest rate of unemployment, with an alarming figure of 40.4%. The Eastern Cape follows closely with 39.3%. The rising unemployment in the North West is largely attributed to the mining industry, as job seekers fail to secure positions, leading to their stagnation within the province.

If you are from the North West or Eastern Cape province and find yourself in this situation, here’s how to contact EDD. Visit eddcaller.com for useful information and tips on how best to reach out. This website is dedicated to providing you with guidance on navigating your unemployment journey, and helping you get through to EDD as smoothly as possible.