Community kitchens in Cape Town are feeding thousands amid rising food insecurity, yet their work extends far beyond food—each meal represents invisible care work, a daily act of resistance and solidarity that fills the gaps left by failing systems. This report shares findings from a four-year research project which explored how a strengthened informal sector can contribute to the progressive realisation of the right to food.
On our calculations, using Pietermaritzburg-based figures for electricity and transport, and the average figure for a minimum nutritional basket of food for a family of four, puts electricity, and transport, taking up 59,9% of a worker’s wage
The National Minimum Wage is R27,58 an hour and R220,64 for an 8-hour day. In January 2025, with 22- working days, the maximum National Minimum Wage for a General Worker is R4 854,08.
For Black South African workers, one wage typically must support 4 people. Dispersed in a worker’s family of 4 persons, the NMW, is R1 158,36 per person – this is below the upper-bound poverty line of R1 634 per person per month.
The National Minimum Wage is R27,58 an hour and R220,64 for an 8-hour day. In September 2024, with 20 working days, the maximum National Minimum Wage for a General Worker is R4 412,80.
In August 2024, food baskets decreased by large amounts in Joburg and Pietermaritzburg. Food baskets increased by small amounts in Durban, Cape Town, Springbok and Mtubatuba
Whilst the rate of inflation is coming down, it is important to note, that inflation on food is still 5,1% higher now in May 2024 than it was a year ago.
