The Department of Employment and Labour has revealed that just 34% of companies inspected in 2024 complied with South Africa’s Employment Equity Act.
Minister Nomakhosazana Meth disclosed this figure in a recent written response to Parliament, highlighting significant non-compliance among businesses.
Out of 3,152 workplaces inspected during the 2023/24 financial year, only 1,082 met compliance standards. The remaining 2,070 workplaces—amounting to 66%—failed to comply with the Act.
The Employment Equity Act seeks to eliminate unfair discrimination and ensure equitable treatment in workplaces, incorporating affirmative action for designated groups.
Minister Meth stated that all non-compliant companies received notices demanding compliance, with 210 workplaces subsequently referred for prosecution due to continued non-compliance.
For the third quarter of the 2024/25 financial year, inspections at 2,375 workplaces showed similar results, with compliance at only 35%, leaving 65% non-compliant.
Minister Meth also clarified that the Department could not publicly disclose details of individual non-compliant workplaces due to the Protection of Personal Information (POPI) Act.
