The Economic Journey of Afrikaners in Apartheid and Post-Apartheid South Africa

South Africa's apartheid era, which lasted from 1948 until 1994, saw significant economic and social transformations. One aspect of these changes is the journey of Afrikaners, who constituted a diverse group during this period. While many Afrikaners did belong to the working class, the Nationalist Party implemented policies that dramatically shifted their economic status.

A Working-Class Majority in Apartheid

During the apartheid era, the majority of Afrikaners occupied lower socio-economic positions. Many were either unemployed or underemployed. This was due to the systemic nature of apartheid, which not only segregated different racial groups but also limited job opportunities for non-whites. The Nationalist Party, as the ruling authority, looked to change this status quo.

Job Reservation and Sectoral Improvements

The Nationalist Party's strategy included the implementation of job reservation policies. Many jobs were reserved for poor whites, such as train drivers, stevedores, harbour forklift drivers, post office clerks, and mail delivery men. These measures were designed not only to provide economic opportunities for poor whites but also to establish a skilled workforce.

Over the course of less than two generations, these policies began to yield results. The government improved white education in schools, universities, and technical colleges, specifically for whites. This initiative trained multiple generations of teachers and nurses, and expanded agricultural colleges to boost farming capabilities.

Furthermore, the Nationalist Party created large numbers of apprenticeships at state-owned enterprises, such as Eskom (the electricity utility), the railways, South African Airways, the telecommunications industry, and the iron and steel industry. These sectors were crucial for technological advancement and economic growth, and the government aimed to use them to uplift white skills.

By the time 1994 rolled around, the job was largely done. Afrikaners had been lifted out of poverty and were well-equipped to participate in the modern world. It took approximately 50 years to achieve this significant transformation in their economic status.

A Diverse Group with Economic Advantages

It is crucial to note that Afrikaners during apartheid were a diverse group. While many did belong to the working class, there were also substantial numbers in the middle and upper classes. These individuals held significant positions of power and influence within various sectors, including the government, the military, and the business community.

The apartheid system itself benefitted certain segments of the Afrikaner population in terms of economic and social advancement. For example, whites had access to better educational opportunities, legal representation, and job opportunities that were not available to non-whites.

Post-Apartheid Economic Challenges and Revisions

With the end of apartheid, the government implemented new policies designed to redress past injustices. This included measures such as bursaries, educational grants, and job reservation for “previously disadvantaged” groups. While these initiatives aimed to promote equality and provide opportunities to those who had been marginalized, it also meant that certain jobs that had been previously reserved for whites were now open to a broader population.

Despite these changes, the transformation in the economic status of Afrikaners remains one of the most notable aspects of South African history. From a working-class majority, Afrikaners transitioned to a capable and influential segment of the population through strategic policy changes during the apartheid era.