News
Nasi Ispani Relaunch: 45,000 Jobs for Gauteng Youth, Says Lesufi
The pavements of Katlehong were lined with hopeful faces this week as hundreds of young South Africans queued to hand in their CVs. Their goal: a chance to be part of the relaunch of Nasi Ispani, Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s state-led programme aimed at tackling youth unemployment in Gauteng.
Jobs “only for South Africans”
Speaking at the relaunch, Lesufi stressed that the 45,000 job opportunities would be reserved exclusively for South African citizens living in Gauteng. The positions are expected to be filled within the next two months and will focus on areas such as public service, construction, ICT, and skills development.
“You must be from South Africa,” he said firmly, apologising to foreign nationals who hoped to apply. “I come with the political will to create job opportunities and end unemployment in Gauteng.”
A second shot at a big promise
Nasi Ispani first launched in 2023, promising more than 40,000 opportunities for young people through internships, training, and public service placements. By official counts, over 90,000 people found work through the programme. The relaunch now seeks to build on that momentum, offering another round of placements that Lesufi says will reduce poverty and give the youth a chance to build careers.
Mixed reaction on the ground
For many of the young job seekers queueing in Ekurhuleni, the initiative offers a glimmer of hope in a province where unemployment among the youth remains one of the highest in the country. Social media was filled with pictures of long queues, as communities rallied behind the idea of “our turn to work.”
But critics remain sceptical. Opposition parties have accused the ANC of using Nasi Ispani as an electioneering tool rather than a sustainable solution. Past beneficiaries have complained about late stipends, short-term contracts that were not renewed, and little real support to transition into permanent jobs.
The bigger question
The relaunch of Nasi Ispani comes at a time when young South Africans are desperate for opportunities. While the promise of 45,000 jobs is significant, questions remain about whether the programme can deliver lasting employment or whether it will continue to rely on temporary placements.
For now, Premier Lesufi’s relaunch has reignited hope for thousands. Whether it can withstand the test of time and deliver real change to Gauteng’s youth will be the true measure of its success.
Also read: R30m Dagga Bust in Camperdown as Hawks Seize Guns and Drugs
Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter, TikT
For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com
Source: IOL
Featured Image: News24
