The Commission for Employment Equity annual report shows Africans, who account for 81% of the economically active population, remain underrepresented in top and senior management across much of the economy.

Concept of leadership, business, manager, meeting. Image: 123rf.com
White employees still dominate senior positions in South Africa, despite making up less than 8% of the economically active population.
That’s according to the 25th Commission for Employment Equity annual report for 2024/25, released by the Department of Employment and Labour.
The report shows Africans, who account for 81% of the economically active population, remain underrepresented in top and senior management across much of the economy.
Women and persons with disabilities also continue to face barriers to advancement.
Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth said progress has been made since employment equity legislation was introduced, but the country still has a long way to go.
The findings come as amendments to the Employment Equity Act take effect this year. It gives the government power to set sector-specific targets and require compliance certificates from companies seeking State contracts.
