By Palesa Matlala
- Senzo Mbatha has been unemployed for four years and says he wants a job so he can support his family and build a future.
- Police say they are ready for any protests linked to the 30 June deadline set by groups campaigning against illegal immigration.
For four years, 27-year-old Senzo Mbatha has woken up every morning without a job to go to.
Now the Benoni resident hopes a planned jobs march will help him and thousands of other unemployed South Africans find work.
On 17 June, Senzo is among the hundreds of youth who plan to hand out his CV to factories and industrial companies across Benoni with
The matriculant lives with his family in a hostel and says life has become frustrating as he watches people his age move forward while he remains unemployed.
“I finished school four years ago and since then I have been looking for work every day,” said Senzo.
“I don’t want luxury. I just want a job so I can put food on the table and help my family.”
Senzo believes many companies are overlooking local job seekers.
“When we arrive looking for work, we are told there are no jobs. But we still see people being hired. It makes us feel hopeless,” he said.
He said even low-paying factory jobs would make a huge difference.
“Maybe the salaries are not big, but it is better than sitting at home with nothing. I want to earn my own money and take care of myself.”
Senzo said watching his friends progress in life has been painful.
“My friends have houses, cars, wives and children. Some are building their futures. I still depend on my mother to make sure there is food at home.”
The march is being organised by anti-illegal immigration groups who want businesses to stop employing foreign nationals.
Organisers say companies are being given until 30 June to make alternative employment arrangements.
Bongani Mthethwa of the All Truck Drivers Forum and Allied South Africa said the campaign is being conducted peacefully.
“We are not forcing anyone. We are informing employers and giving them enough time to act,” he said.
Many marchers argue that jobs should be prioritised for South Africans.
However, police are preparing for possible tensions as the deadline approaches.
Gauteng Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni said law enforcement agencies are ready for any situation.
“Yes, of course, we are ready. Collectively we are ready. We are working with different stakeholders to ensure stability and safety,” said Mthombeni.
He said police, community policing forums and Gauteng Traffic wardens are already preparing for possible protests.
KwaZulu-Natal activist Nkosikhona “Phakel’umthakathi” Ndabandaba, who has supported calls for nationwide action, has insisted the protests will remain peaceful.
“We are not calling for violence. We gave people time to prepare because we know they have families and investments here,” he said.
As the debate around jobs and immigration grows louder, Senzo says his wish remains simple.
“I don’t want handouts. I want a chance to work. That’s all.”
Pictured above: A protest.
Image source: Supplied
