Northern Cape Boasts Steady Growth

The Northern Cape has delivered a major economic performance, establishing itself as South Africa’s primary growth frontier.

Following Statistics South Africa’s comprehensive Gross Domestic Product (GDP) benchmarking and rebasing exercise, the provincial economy is now estimated to be 26% larger.

This upward baseline adjustment far outpaces the national upward revision of 4.9%.

Driven by consistent year-on-year expansion across mining, trade, and general services, total GDP surged from R140.32-billion in 2018 to R219.95-billion in 2025.

This steady momentum has elevated the Northern Cape to the highest GDP per capita in South Africa at R146 888, outstripping major economic hubs like Gauteng (R144 721) and the Western Cape (R133 128).

Crucially, strong output expansion has translated into direct job creation across the province.

Official unemployment in the province fell from 32.7% to 28.7%, representing the second-lowest unemployment rate in the country.

Reflecting on these milestones, Northern Cape Premier Dr Zamani Saul framed the results as validation of targeted provincial strategy.

“By percentage, this GDP growth represents the highest growth estimate in SA. Hence, the NC has the highest GDP per capita in the country standing at R146 888. It is this growth that helped us to reduce official unemployment from 32.7% to 28.7%, which represents the second lowest levels of unemployment in the country,” he said

Saul emphasised that the provincial administration remains committed to accelerating development across regional sectors.

“This is not a small feat but measurable and major strides by the ANC led Provincial Government. Our work to reposition the Northern Cape as South Africa’s new growth front continues… Our efforts are bearing positive results. It is now time to push much harder,” he continued.

With sustained momentum across primary and tertiary industries, the Northern Cape continues to reinforce its role in broader national economic growth.