The COVID-19 pandemic, national lockdown, and resulting economic slowdown affect every aspect of South African society. Given the already weak state of the economy, the country’s high levels of unemployment, poverty and inequality will increase as a result.
The consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic also have far-reaching implications for the role that NGOs play in the lives of millions of South Africans.
The more than 220 000 NGOs registered with the Department of Social Development, as well as many community-based organisations, perform crucial development, humanitarian and advocacy functions, and are an integral part of the fabric of our society.
Unfortunately, most NGOs are dependent on grant funding and individual donations to support their operations. As local and international funders are also affected by economic downturns, less funding will be available to support NGOs.
COVID-19 is not an event with a defined beginning or end, and it is likely to remain…
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