Can South Africa’s green transition fix the youth unemployment crisis?

Stephen Grootes speaks to XXX about efforts to position young people at the centre of South Africa’s green economy.

Listen to the interview in the audio player below.

South Africa’s transition to a greener economy is increasingly being framed not just as an environmental shift, but as a major economic and employment opportunity, especially for young people.

That is the focus of the National Business Initiative (NBI), which is positioning youth at the centre of the country’s green economy strategy.

The organisation is working with business, government and civil society to ensure that young people, particularly those in township communities are not left behind as new industries emerge.

According to NBI-supported research and national labour data, unemployment among young people remains extremely high, with millions not in employment, education or training.

Speaking to Stephen Grootes on The Money Show, Shameela Soobramoney, Chief Executive Officer of the National Business Initiative in South Africa says the green economy shaping up to be a massive industry in the years to come.

Soobramoney says as demand grows in sectors linked to renewable energy, infrastructure and sustainable services, the focus is shifting to how youth, particularly in township communities can access real opportunities.

"This is targeted primarily at young people, particularly youth seeking accessible pathways into employment, but also into entrepreneurship and skills development opportunities in this case, into the green economy."

- Shameela Soobramoney, CEO - National Business Initiative in South Africa

"What's been appreciated, particularly by the private sector is that practical focus, to make sure that what's coming out of the system is actually employable by them."

- Shameela Soobramoney, CEO - National Business Initiative in South Africa

Scroll to the top of the article to listen to the full interview.