There is yet another commission taking place—this time, one that affects you and your pocket directly. The South African Human Rights Commission has launched an inquiry into the country’s
food system, asking why millions of South Africans continue to go hungry and struggle to afford nutritious food despite the country producing enough food to feed its population. The hearings will examine the rising cost of food, market concentration, food insecurity, and the role of government,
retailers and food producers in ensuring that everyone has access to affordable, nutritious food. The Commission says the inquiry will help identify practical solutions to strengthen food security
and protect every South African’s constitutional right to sufficient food. Tonight, we unpack what this inquiry means for consumers, whether it can lead to meaningful change, and what needs to
happen to make healthy food more affordable and accessible.