Youth Empowerment Programmes and Sustainable Livelihoods in South African Port Cities: A Policy Perspective

Youth empowerment programmes in South African port cities are crucial for addressing unemployment and fostering sustainable livelihoods. A mixed-method approach combining qualitative interviews with focus groups to assess existing programmes and identify gaps, supplemented by secondary data analysis of government reports and academic literature on youth employment policies. Findings indicate a significant proportion (35%) of young people in port city areas are unemployed or underemployed, highlighting the urgent need for targeted interventions to enhance employability skills and entrepreneurial opportunities. The existing youth empowerment programmes lack comprehensive coverage and tailored support mechanisms, necessitating a more inclusive and adaptable approach to address specific local challenges effectively. Recommendation 1: Implement community-based vocational training centers in port city areas to provide hands-on skill development. Recommendation 2: Encourage partnerships with private sector employers to create internship opportunities for youth.