The ripple effect of this hike is felt across the board as households, businesses, and motorists find themselves allocating more of their budget to essential items like food and fuel.

Amidst these economic pressures, Mametlwe Sebei, President of the General Industries Workers Union of SA, has called on the government to implement price regulations to protect consumers from the brunt of these increases.

Sebei highlights a concerning trend, noting that "in 2021, it was estimated that approximately 11% of the population was experiencing hunger.

Currently, an estimated 13.8% of the country's 13.8 million people are living below the poverty line."

This statement sheds light on the growing issue of food insecurity and poverty in the nation, prompting urgent calls for governmental intervention.

--SABC--