South Africa faces a major hunger crisis, with 20 million people going hungry daily. UNICEF ranks the country among the top 20 nations with extreme child poverty, emphasizing the need for food system transformation to ensure long-term food security.

SPAR is actively working with Operation Hunger and other organisations to combat hunger sustainably. Instead of only providing short-term food relief, SPAR focuses on long-term solutions that create food security and empower communities.

Key Quote: “Addressing only immediate hunger is not enough; long-term solutions are needed.” – Dr Thuli Tabudi

“Isonka” (meaning bread in Xhosa) is SPAR’s feeding scheme, launched in 2012. The initiative ensures that both feeding schemes and income-generating projects are established in outlying areas, helping communities move toward self-sufficiency.

Key Fact: Projects are strategically placed near SPAR stores to improve accessibility and receive ongoing support.

SPAR’s partnership with Operation Hunger follows two key principles:
1. Community consultation – Understanding local food needs before implementing programs.
2. Business-driven solutions – Creating sustainable food projects, such as vegetable gardens and training programs, that grow into self-sustaining initiatives.

Operation Hunger begins with community meetings to assess food availability and nutrition needs. They evaluate existing food practices and determine how best to assist families in need.

Key Features:
– Regular evaluation of feeding programs.
– Monitoring the health & well-being of participants.
– Ongoing meetings to adjust and improve efforts.

SPAR works closely with Operation Hunger in strategy meetings to ensure that all resources and donations are used effectively. These discussions help track progress, set new goals, and improve program effectiveness.

Key Impact Areas:
– Tracking progress and making necessary adjustments.
– Ensuring transparency in the allocation of resources.
– Encouraging local SPAR stores to actively support community initiatives.

Large-scale food security efforts require substantial funding, logistics, and supply chain expertise. Corporate partners like SPAR play a vital role by:

– Providing financial support and food donations.
– Using supply chain expertise to improve food distribution.
– Partnering with organisations like Operation Hunger to expand impact.

SPAR envisions a future where no South African goes hungry. Through strategic partnerships and sustainable initiatives, the company is working towards long-term food security.

Final Quote: “Our partnership has a tangible impact on social development—we are proud to be part of this movement.” – Dr Thuli Tabudi