Durban has recorded the sharpest increase in food prices over the past month, placing further financial pressure on households in KwaZulu-Natal. This is according to the latest Household Affordability Index released by the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity Group, which warns of an escalating "unaffordability crisis" in the region.
Between March and April 2025, the average cost of a basic household food basket rose by R90.94 (1.7%), climbing from R5,329.36 to R5,420.30. The steep increase has raised alarm bells about food security in the province.
Mervyn Abrahams, programme coordinator at the organisation, says the rising cost of food continues to threaten the well-being of low-income families across eThekwini and beyond.
“The likelihood of malnutrition and hunger continues to stalk most of South Africa's households, including those in the eThekwini district,” Abrahams stated. “The national minimum wage simply isn’t enough to sustain an average family.”
In Pietermaritzburg, the cost of feeding a family of four has now surpassed R5,000. With the national minimum wage bringing in roughly R4,500, households are left in a precarious financial position once transport and electricity expenses are deducted.
“After paying for transport and electricity, families are left with around R1,813 for food,” Abrahams explained. “That translates to R453 per person, which is far below the national food poverty line.”
As the cost of living continues to rise, advocacy groups are calling for urgent government intervention to address food affordability and ensure vulnerable communities do not fall deeper into poverty.