South Africa's inflation rate has climbed to 5%, with electricity, fuel and grocery prices piling even more pressure on already stretched household budgets. As the cost of everyday essentials continues to rise, many South Africans are being forced to make difficult choices at the checkout counter.

The National Briefing · Jul 23, 2026 · 3m

South Africa's inflation rate has climbed to 5%, with electricity, fuel and grocery prices piling even more pressure on already stretched household budgets. As the cost of everyday essentials continues to rise, many South Africans are being forced to make difficult choices at the checkout counter. The question facing millions is no longer what can I afford? — but what do I leave behind at the till?

Guest: Mervyn Abrahams - Programme Coordinator at the Director of the Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity Group (PMBEJD)