Consumer inflation jumped to 4,5% in May from 4,0% in April. This is the highest rate since July 2024, when it was 4,6%. The monthly change in the consumer price index (CPI) was 0,7% in May. The inflation surge was largely driven by increases in fuel prices. The fuel index recorded a second large monthly increase,   read more »

As South Africa commemorates 50 years since the 1976 Soweto Uprising, Youth Month provides an opportunity to reflect on how the lives of young people have changed over time. The generation of 1976 fought for access to quality education, dignity, and equal opportunity. As Statistics South Africa celebrates 30 years of census – taking in   read more »

South Africa’s youth face a combination of health challenges and reality. While many young people describe themselves as healthy and hopeful, their lived experience reveal a more complex story shaped by financial pressures, limited access to quality health services, and everyday life challenges. Recent data reveals shifting patterns in how young people experience health, access   read more »

The South African economy maintained its positive momentum in the first quarter of 2026 (January–March). Real gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 0,5%,1 marking a sixth consecutive quarter of growth. Finance, agriculture, trade and transport did the heavy lifting on the production (supply) side of the economy. The expenditure (demand) side was supported by a   read more »

Violence against children remains one of the most pervasive yet often hidden challenges affecting societies today. Despite global policy commitments, abuse, neglect, and exploitation of children continues across homes, schools, and communities. In South Africa Child Protection Week, observed from 29 May to 5 June 2026, raises awareness about children’s rights and safety while encouraging   read more »

Stats SA published 25 statistical releases in May, with many providing a preliminary snapshot of economic performance in the first quarter (January–March). Business indicators largely upbeat The first quarter of 2026 was mainly positive, with stronger results from mining; wholesale trade sales; motor trade sales; tourist accommodation; restaurants, catering & fast-food; and rail & road   read more »

Earlier in the month, Stats SA reported the notable impact of higher fuel prices on consumer inflation.1 Producers were not spared either, according to data released this week. Manufacturers are also feeling the heat Fuel price increases also affected prices at the factory gate, as measured by the headline producer price index (PPI). The annual   read more »

Thirty years ago, South Africa made a promise. In 1996, the country adopted its Constitution and conducted its first democratic census, committing to count every person equally regardless of race, geography, or circumstance. Over three decades, this promise has been upheld through four national censuses that reflect the transformation of the nation. The Constitution and   read more »

Consumer inflation jumped to 4,0% in April from 3,1% in March, driven mainly by sharp fuel price increases. This is the highest inflation print since August 2024, when the headline rate was 4,4%. The monthly change in the consumer price index (CPI) was 1,1% in April. Fuel prices bite hard Consumers were dealt a painful fuel   read more »

According to the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS), South Africa’s working-age population stood at 42,2 million individuals aged 15-64 in the first quarter of 2026, up by 121 000 compared to quarter 4 of 2025. This represents the backbone of South Africa’s economy, yet its true potential is concentrated in a notably young demographic. Of the   read more »