Mozambique’s unemployment rose by 1.8% in Q4 2024, reaching 190,558. Most job seekers (91,215) were looking for their first job. The central region had the highest unemployment rate (36.1%). A decline in new jobs by 13.7% was noted, while foreign labor hiring rose by 2.1%. There was a marked increase in illegal foreign worker suspensions, emphasizing employment regulation issues.
In the fourth quarter of 2024, Mozambique experienced a 1.8% rise in unemployment, with a total of 190,558 individuals unemployed, up from 187,149 in the prior quarter. The Labour Market Information Bulletin from the ministry of labour details that 91,215 job seekers were registered, primarily searching for their first job.
Regionally, the central region faced the highest unemployment at 36.1%, while the south had 33.4%, and the north the lowest at 30.5%. Gender-specific data indicates that the south had 38.1% female job seekers, the centre 36.9%, and the north 25.0%. Additionally, 47.9% of registered individuals were first-time job seekers, predominantly from Nampula (22.9%), followed by Tete (14%), and Zambézia (11.5%).
In terms of new job registrations, 103,834 jobs were created in Q4, a 13.7% decline from 120,252 in the preceding quarter. The central region accounted for 43.6% of new jobs, while the north had 30.8%, and the south 25.6%. Notably, provinces like Nampula (51.2%), Sofala (40.9%), and Gaza (39.6%) contributed most to job creation; 33.3% of jobs were allocated to women.
A 2.1% increase in foreign labour hiring was observed, with registries showing 5,426 foreign workers compared to 5,316 in Q3. Wholesale and retail trade employed the most foreign workers, constituting 43.8%, while construction and mining followed at 14.8% and 11.5%. The bulletin also mentioned that 22 illegal foreign workers were suspended, marking a 29.4% rise from the previous quarter. Maputo city saw the most suspensions (11), with Sofala (6) and Manica (3) following. The majority (63.6%) of suspended workers were found in commerce, restaurants, and hotels.
The rise in unemployment in Mozambique to 1.8% in Q4 2024 underscores the challenges faced in the country’s labor market, particularly in creating new jobs. Significant regional and gender disparities persist, with the central region most affected. Despite some growth in foreign labor hiring, the noted suspensions of illegal workers highlight regulatory concerns in employment practices. Overall, the data reflects the complex dynamics of Mozambique’s employment landscape at the close of 2024.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
