Living in South Africa and struggling to make ends meet? Keep on reading to find out which side hustles you can do to make some extra moolah.
According to the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA), unemployment increased by 330,000 in the first quarter of 2024, bringing the total number of unemployed individuals to 8.2 million.
This has led many South Africans to seek additional income through side hustles.The same survey highlights that one in three Gen Z individuals, aged 7 to 27, are involved in side hustles.
Additionally, around 4 million South Africans are juggling multiple jobs. Globally, 12% of the workforce is engaged in the online gig economy, which is expanding at a rate three times faster than traditional job sectors.
Here are 5 Promising Side Hustles for South Africans Amid Economic Challenges
1. Freelance Digital Services
As more businesses shift online, the need for digital services like graphic design, content creation, and social media management continues to rise. Platforms such as Upwork and Fiverr allow skilled individuals to connect with clients globally and earn a reliable income from home.
2. Online Tutoring
With education increasingly moving online, there’s a growing demand for tutors, particularly in subjects like math, science, and languages. Whether you’re an experienced teacher or simply have expertise in a subject, platforms like Teach Me 2 and iTalki offer South Africans opportunities to provide tutoring services both locally and internationally.
3. E-Commerce and Dropshipping
The growth of online shopping presents a great opportunity for entrepreneurs to sell products without a physical storefront. Dropshipping, in particular, allows you to sell products without holding inventory, making it a low-risk business model / side hustle. Platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce simplify the process of creating an online store and reaching a global customer base.
4. Ride-Hailing with Bolt
Becoming a driver-partner with Bolt offers a flexible way to earn extra income. Whether you have a full-time job, are a student, or are raising children, Bolt allows drivers to choose their hours.
With operations in 23 cities across South Africa, it’s easy for car owners to join. Drivers can also participate in Bolt Send, a same-day parcel delivery service, or transport passengers using various service options like Bolt X, Bolt Lite, Go Sedan, Premium, or Go Hatch.
5. Content Creation and Monetization
The digital content boom has opened doors for creators on platforms like YouTube and Instagram to earn money through ad revenue, sponsorships, and merchandise sales. Whether through vlogging, photography, or educational content, creators can monetize their skills and passions.
These side hustles offer South Africans a flexible way to generate additional income, allowing them to work on their own schedule. In times of economic uncertainty, diversifying income sources has become increasingly important. By seizing these opportunities, South Africans can more effectively manage the financial challenges of today.
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If you're in South Africa and looking for something to do, check out The SA Gig Guide (on our sister site SA Music Zone).
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