How do we solve the problem?

Together with our partners, we are working towards facing the most pressing challenges related to food security in South Africa.

STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS

By reducing the intermediaries we work with and partnering directly with food manufacturers, we are able to offer significantly reduced pricing on food.

WORKING WITH THE COMMUNITY

Gcwalisa containers are strategically located within community based organisations. The CBO’s are trained to run the Gcwalisa. Our business model allows for the CBOs to receive an alternative income source and not be solely reliant on charity.

BUILDING A ZERO WASTE CULTURE

Research shows that packaging amounts for 8-15% of the food cost. Not only are we reducing food prices through reduced packaging in the value chain but creating a zero waste culture. More than 50% of plastic products converted in South Africa have a lifespan of less than three years. Sometimes this packaging is only used for a few days or even minutes before disposal.

This is largely a result of our lifestyles, specifically when it comes to foodstuffs. At Gcwalisa, customers are encouraged to bring their own packaging or food is sold through biodegradable packaging.

36 Million People | 12 Million Households

Fall under the poor or working poor income segments in South Africa

Poverty Tax

Being poor is expensive

While the cost of living is rising and the wages are not moving at the same speed, low-income communities in South Africa are left having to make difficult choices when it comes to food purchases. This means that few people can afford to bulk buy basic essentials and the most are forced to shop in smaller, more expensive local stores that, on average, charge 30 to 50 percent more for smaller pack items. These problems affecting families around South Africa every day, are a result of inequality, and can be called a “Poverty Tax”.

More than half of our country’s population are unable to afford basic foods.

Most South Africans Can’t Afford Basic Foods

28% of South Africans are regarded as poor, because they are living on less than R2 500 per month. Individuals in this category described their access to food as inadequate or severe.

A family of four would need to spend R2 524 a month on basic foods. This is about 32% of a household’s monthly spend, which means that a family of four would need to earn R7 800 per month just to afford basic food groceries. More than half of our country’s population are unable to afford this.

Most South Africans Can’t Afford Basic Foods

28% of South Africans are regarded as poor, because they are living on less than R2 500 per month. Individuals in this category described their access to food as inadequate or severe.

A family of four would need to spend R2 524 a month on basic foods. This is about 32% of a household’s monthly spend, which means that a family of four would need to earn R7 800 per month just to afford basic food groceries. More than half of our country’s population are unable to afford this.

More than half of our country’s population are unable to afford basic foods.

Our Trusted Partners

Press

Testimonials

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    The staff are very good and, they know how to talk to people. Mam Mokowele and Mmapula, keep up the good work.
    Mmasebaka
    Location: Alexandra, South Africa
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    The customer service is great, and they treat their customers with a smile everyday.
    Eulla
    Location: Alexandra, South Africa
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    I like the people the are working at Gcwalisa. They know how to work with people. I am very happy with everything at Gcwalisa. God bless the place.
    Rose
    Location: Alexandra, South Africa
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    The staff are very friendly and forever smiling. They sell original stuff.
    Busisiwe
    Location: Alexandra, South Africa
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    Gcwalisa is a very cheap place for people like us who are not working.
    Cynthia
    Location: Alexandra, South Africa
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    This place is very good, and you cannot sleep without eating.
    Sandile
    Location: Alexandra, South Africa
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    I can afford the prices. Even if I have R6, I can eat.
    Lebogang
    Location: Alexandra, South Africa
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    My granny takes care of us and with Gcwalisa, she can afford to buy food for the 5 of us.
    Letlhogonolo
    Location: Alexandra, South Africa
Get
Involved!

If you’d like to learn more about Gcwalisa and our work, please complete the form and we’ll be in touch.

Contact Gcwalisa

Locations
Alexandra, South Africa

Email
info@gcwalisa.com

Phone
+27(0) 11 234 5678

Contact Gcwalisa

Locations
Alexandra, South Africa

Email
info@gcwalisa.com

Phone
+27(0) 11 234 5678