Mapaballo Borotho
- New research reveals that corruption, failing energy systems, and food insecurity are the biggest obstacles holding South Africa back.
- Experts say government must strengthen partnerships with the private sector to address these crises.
- As the world marks International Anti-Corruption Day, the UN highlights the vital role of young people in rebuilding integrity and opportunity.
As the world marks International Anti-Corruption Day today, 9 December 2025, new research has laid bare the deep-rooted challenges holding South Africa back, from crippling energy problems to corruption, food insecurity, and failing infrastructure.
A recent study by academics from several institutions highlights a complex web of socio-economic pressures and governance failures that continue to limit the country’s potential.
Despite South Africa being a nation with vast resources and the ability to deliver jobs, quality education, and a stable cost of living, it remains the world’s most unequal society, with millions, especially children, still living below the poverty line.
Speaking to Kaya 959’s Phemelo Motene on Point of View, Fort Hare University research associate Thulani Ningi explained that water security, food security, and energy are the most urgent threats preventing South Africa from reaching its full potential.
Ningi stressed that overcoming these systemic challenges requires a functional partnership between government and the private sector.
This discussion comes as the global community commemorates International Anti-Corruption Day, a reminder that corruption remains at the heart of South Africa’s most persistent obstacles.
This year’s theme, “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,” underscores the critical role young people play in building fair, transparent societies.
According to the United Nations, 1.9 billion young people worldwide, nearly a quarter of the global population, are disproportionately harmed by corruption through underfunded schools, limited job opportunities, and restricted access to essential services.
Yet they also hold the extraordinary potential to drive change.
The UN notes that by partnering with young people, embracing innovation, and strengthening institutions, world leaders can ensure corruption does not continue to block opportunity, undermine development, or erode public trust.
Listen to the full Kaya 959 conversation in the podcast link below:
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