FoodForward South Africa (SA) has called for urgent legislation requiring farmers, food processors, and retailers to donate surplus food earlier, rather than letting it go to waste.

The appeal comes as the country faces a worsening food insecurity crisis that is affecting even households reliant on food relief.

A recent report by FoodForward SA, conducted in partnership with the University of Cape Town’s Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit, found that 70% of SA families experience moderate to severe food insecurity, and one in four households go entire days without food.

Bobbie Jacobs, Fund Development Manager at FoodForward SA, highlighted the impact of the timing of government grants on household food security. “Even when families receive their grants by the fifth of the month, the money often only lasts two weeks. By mid-month, households are struggling, and in the final two weeks, people are forced to make sacrifices,” she said.

Jacobs urged the public to support food relief initiatives through donations. “What organisations like FoodForward SA need most is assistance with contributions. You can donate via our website or through our other channels,” she added.

–ChannelAfrica–