Dear Portfolio Committee on Employment and Labour. I submit these comments on the Employment Services Amendment Bill, 2026, out of deep concern about South Africa’s persistent unemployment, poverty and inequality, particularly among Black South Africans, women and young people.

Millions of South Africans remain unemployed, while many young people struggle to enter the labour market despite having qualifications, skills and a willingness to work. Women and historically disadvantaged communities continue to face significant barriers to economic participation. For many households, unemployment means prolonged poverty, dependency and the loss of dignity and economic independence.

Against this background, I believe that South Africa’s employment policies must prioritise the employment prospects of its citizens. I am particularly concerned about the employment of asylum seekers and refugees in a country where so many South Africans struggle to secure work. Government must ensure that labour market policies respond to these socioeconomic realities while respecting the Constitution and applicable legal obligations.

Recommendation: A 95:5 Employment Allocation Framework

I propose that Parliament consider introducing a 95:5 employment allocation framework, under which 95% of employment opportunities in designated sectors or workplaces would be reserved for South African citizens, while up to 5% could be allocated to eligible refugees and asylum seekers, subject to applicable law.

This proposal seeks to protect employment opportunities for South Africans while allowing a limited share for eligible refugees and asylum seekers. The framework should include clearly defined rules, transparent employer reporting, effective enforcement and appropriate provisions for genuine skills shortages. Parliament should also ensure that the framework is legally sound and consistent with existing protections and international obligations.

I therefore recommend that Parliament:

Prioritise South African citizens through enforceable recruitment requirements that give suitably qualified and available citizens preference.
Consider the proposed 95:5 allocation and determine its lawful application across designated sectors and workplaces.
Strengthen enforcement against employers who violate employment, immigration or labour laws or exploit workers.
Monitor employment outcomes through regular public reporting, particularly for Black South Africans, women and young people.
Promote sustainable youth employment through skills development, apprenticeships and pathways into permanent work.
In conclusion, South Africa cannot ignore the suffering caused by unemployment, poverty and inequality. Government has a responsibility to protect the employment prospects of its citizens, particularly those historically excluded from economic opportunities.

I respectfully urge the Committee to consider this proposal as part of a broader approach to employment regulation that prioritises South African citizens, promotes economic inclusion and contributes to reducing poverty and inequality.

Bongani Kufa,
MA DEVELOPMENT STUDIES