Thando Kondile: These price increases are really affecting us. Transport alone takes a big part of my money, and now with food prices also going up, it’s becoming very difficult to manage. Sometimes you have to choose between getting to work and buying enough groceries. Photo: Nomsa Ngubeni
Tsakani –Residents say rising fuel and paraffin prices are placing severe strain on already struggling households, with many unable to afford daily transport and basic necessities, as unemployment and the rising cost of food continue to deepen the financial burden on township communities.
Mncedisi Ntuli: These increases have hit us hard because school fees have been increased as well and our salaries are only increasing by a mere 5% at the end of June. We are already battling and living from hand to mouth so we are forced to cut certain expenses. Photo: Buhle Matsoele
Mncedisi Somyo: Life is getting more expensive every day. We depend on taxis, and with petrol going up, fares increase too. Paraffin is also not affordable anymore, especially now that winter is coming. It’s tough for many families in the township. Photo: Nomsa Ngubeni
Vusi Mcedi: I have been a driver for the past 10 years, but now I am no longer sure if I still want to own a car because of the high petrol costs. It feels like we may eventually end up using bicycles to get to town, since taxi fares are also becoming expensive. On top of everything else, food prices are skyrocketing too. Something needs to be done, we urgently need prices to come down. Photo: Nomsa Ngubeni
Asanda Dlamini: I’m not happy with this decision. I have a family to take care of and things like this badly affect our family’s livelihood. We are supposed to balance petrol and essential costs and you end up lacking in one of those. Photo: Zamokuhle Ndawonde
Sibusiso Genge: We are used to the increases, there is really no difference. This has been happening for years. All you have to do is adapt, plan your finances accordingly and live with it. Photo: Zamokuhle Ndawonde
