Food security and social stability are interconnected.
South Africa’s food security was brought into focus in July, when rioters destroyed production and retail infrastructure and shut down distribution.
Suddenly, animals and poultry could not be fed, food could not reach the shops and hundreds of retail outlets were burned to the ground. In addition, a cyber-attack disrupted food imports and exports at South African harbours. The disruptions were soon over, but questions remain.
South Africa is regarded as food secure at a national level, but not at household level because poverty means millions of South Africans go hungry despite food being available. One in four people in South Africa live below the food poverty line.
FairPlay is hosting a webinar on 25 August at 2pm to discuss food security at all levels. Experts will explore food security concerns and strategies to address them, including enhancing the food supply chain to broaden access, improve affordability and increase availability of locally produced food.
