The recent gold rush in the Gugulethu informal settlement in Springs, east of Johannesburg, has highlighted severe financial hardships among poor communities.

Statistics South Africa’s latest figures show that unemployment in Gauteng stands at 33 percent.

Residents of the informal settlement say they are living in poverty, which results from joblessness.

They say when rumours emerged of gold particles being found in a cattle kraal in the area, many flocked to the area with the hope of striking it lucky.

One resident, 25-year-old Phillip Moyane,  relocated from Mpumalanga a year ago and has been working as a self-taught tailor.

“I came to this area a year ago and have two children to feed, so I decided to start a small sewing business. Although it is slow, it makes a difference. Some days are different, sometimes I only make R50, and other days I make more than that.”

The residents will be watching to see if Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s State of the Province Address will outline plans to grow the province’s economy and create jobs. And if Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s Budget will fund state-led initiatives with the hope of igniting economic growth and making a dent in the country’s high unemployment rate.

VIDEO | Search for gold continues in Gugulethu, Springs:

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