South Africa: Food Basket Rises Again As Wages Stay the Same

South Africa: Food Basket Rises Again As Wages Stay the Same

The February 2026 Household Affordability Index shows another increase in the cost of the basic household food basket, deepening pressure on low-income families. Many full-time workers say their wages have not increased in line with rising food prices, forcing them to borrow money or cut meals before month-end.

Food basket rises again as wages stay the same

By Anita Dangazele The February 2026 Household Affordability Index shows another increase in the cost of the basic household food basket, deepening pressure on low income families. Many full time workers say their wages have not increased in line with rising food prices, forcing them to borrow money or cut meals before month end. Nomusa works full time as a supermarket cashier in Durban. Every day she scans food that she cannot always afford t…