MPUMALANGA – The Democratic Alliance (DA) is exerting pressure on the Mpumalanga government to devise strategies to alleviate hunger among citizens amidst escalating food inflation.
The party cited the recent Consumer Price Index released by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) at the end of August 2024, which highlighted an 11% increase in electricity prices, as well as a 6.9% rise in the prices of milk, eggs, and cheese.
Furthermore, the statistics reveal a 5.8% increase in bread and cereal prices, along with a 5.5% and 5.4% increase in water and fish prices, respectively.
The party has initiated a notice of motion urging the government to deliberate on the issue of food security and outline measures to ensure that the population in the province does not suffer from hunger.
This motion comes in the wake of a protest held in Emalahleni on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, against Eskom’s 40% tariff hikes and an additional R100 surcharge on residents’ bills.
Annerie Weber, a member of the provincial legislature (MPL) and spokesperson on social development, expressed concerns about the sustained inflation rates that are straining household budgets in the province and jeopardising food security.
“Following the premier’s disclosure that 50.2% of the population resides below the poverty line, the DA is also urging the MEC of Social Development, Khethiwe Moeketsi, to expand the number of individuals accessing food through community nutrition development centres,” she stated.
In Delmas, 45-year-old Mandla Sibanyoni shared with the publication that, with a monthly salary of R7 500, he finds it challenging to provide for his family of seven, including his unemployed wife. “The cost of living has significantly increased. I have the responsibility of feeding seven individuals, and I feel that what I am earning is not enough,” he remarked.
Weber emphasised, “It is imperative that the government takes action in the best interest of the residents, as we cannot afford to continue with the status quo while our people struggle to make ends meet.”
