The urban and rural divide: how geography shapes employment in South Africa

South Africa has high rates of inequality, much of which can be seen geographically. To reduce spatial disparities, we need nuanced policies and interventions that consider the unique needs and challenges of different regions. HSRC researchers recently mapped labour absorption patterns across South Africa to see how these link to spatial development and to understand some of the causes of the regional variation. The researchers suggest practical strategies for policymakers and stakeholders to consider.

Publication Details

Journal
Human Science Research Council SA
Published
2025-12-03
DOI
https://doi.org/10.14749/30771254
Primary Topic
Local Economic Development and Planning
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00
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article

The urban and rural divide: how geography shapes employment in South Africa

Human Science Research Council SA
Local Economic Development and Planning
article

The urban and rural divide: how geography shapes employment in South Africa

article en

Abstract

South Africa has high rates of inequality, much of which can be seen geographically. To reduce spatial disparities, we need nuanced policies and interventions that consider the unique needs and challenges of different regions. HSRC researchers recently mapped labour absorption patterns across South Africa to see how these link to spatial development and to understand some of the causes of the regional variation. The researchers suggest practical strategies for policymakers and stakeholders to consider.

Human Science Research Council SA
Decent work and economic growth
Openalex Percentile: Top 29%
Local Economic Development and Planning
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The urban and rural divide: how geography shapes employment in South Africa · Human Science Research Council SA (2025) | TGRS Research Map | TGRS