South African youth has little trust in Zuma

A survey conducted by consumer insights company Pondering Panda with 10 246 young South Africans reveals a low support for President Jacob Zuma.

The poll was made to measure the President’s credibility regarding education and unemployment promises. Almost one third (29 percent) revealed that they do not believe anything he says, and 39 percent do not think he is achieving enough to improve their lives. However, 32 percent consider his efforts to be sincere and that he is doing his best.

There were demographic differences in opinion with 41 percent of the young black South Africans responding more positively, while Indian and white respondents were more negative, just under half responded they did not believe anything he said.

The diversity in attitude was also related to income and gender. The poorest were more positive to Zuma’s promises of improved education and job opportunities. In addition, young men (37 percent found him credible) were more positive than young women (28 percent of the women).

Pondering Panda is part of the World of Avatar group, owned by Mxit and conducted all interviews via telephone. The respondents were all under the age of 34 and all across South Africa. Approximately half of them were between 18 and 24 years old.

iafrica.com