The Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity group (PMBEJD) has published a report revealing the differing prices of core foods across South Africa's major cities. The report indicates that the average cost of a household food basket in September 2021 has increased by 9.4% from the previous year, reaching R4,219.48. This figure surpasses the affordability thresholds for families on low incomes, as the National Minimum Wage for the same period was only R3,643.92. The report also highlights that South Africa's high unemployment rate and various grants are unable to offset the rising cost of food, leading to an increase in food poverty.