A Review of South Africa’s Data on the Care Economy
By Lerato Shai

 26 May 2026

The care economy is fundamental to the functioning of society and the economy — shaping how children are cared for and educated, how people access healthcare and social support, how older persons age with dignity, and how households and communities are sustained. Yet despite its critical role, much of South Africa’s care economy remains insufficiently measured, fragmented across data systems, or hidden entirely from official statistics. Unpaid care work, informal caregiving, workforce conditions, household contributions, and service quality are still poorly understood, limiting our ability to see the full scale, value, and impact of care.

This review explores the current landscape of South Africa’s care economy data across sectors including early childhood development, education, health, domestic work, social services, elderly care, and long-term care. It examines where data is strong, where critical gaps remain, and why strengthening care data systems is essential for better policy, planning, investment, and accountability. At a time when inclusive growth, job creation, and gender equality are national priorities, understanding and valuing the care economy has never been more important.