The South African Human Rights Commission will hold fresh hearings today, Monday 6 June, to investigate why millions of people still go hungry despite the country’s ability to feed its entire population.

The second phase of the will focus on the role of the private sector, market concentration and how businesses across the food chain affect access to affordable and nutritious food.

“Despite the Constitutional guarantee, millions of people in South Africa continue to experience hunger and food insecurity,” the commission said.

Children remain particularly vulnerable, with many suffering from malnutrition and stunting. The commission noted that preventable hunger continues to result in avoidable loss of life.

“This is especially concerning given that South Africa possesses the agricultural capacity and food resources necessary to feed its entire population,” it said.

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The inquiry is based on section 27(1)(b) of the Constitution, which guarantees everyone the right to access sufficient food. The commission launched the investigation after receiving complaints and finding growing concerns about inadequate access to food through its monitoring work.

The first phase of hearings took place earlier this year, with evidence from government departments and civil society organisations. A key theme that emerged was the need to examine how the structure of the food system affects access, affordability and nutrition.

The upcoming hearings will receive evidence from input suppliers, agribusinesses, farmers, food processors, manufacturers, retailers, distributors and industry associations.

“Their participation will contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the structural, economic and policy factors that influence access to food in South Africa,” the commission said.

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