As South Africa marks 30 years of democracy, the legacy of the African National Congress is under scrutiny. 

On one hand, nearly half the population receives some form of grant funding, but unemployment rates are alarmingly high and business confidence has waned significantly. These economic challenges cast a dark shadow over the milestone that is 3 decades of democracy, raising concerns about the nation’s future stability.

But, it’s not all doom and gloom: the murder rate has decreased, more learners are completing matric and the country has made impressive progress in combatting HIV, with an estimated 5.86-million people on antiretrovirals.

The following 8 charts provide a glimpse into South Africa’s current state, highlighting both the highs and lows of the past 30 years. They reveal a country that has made significant strides in certain areas while grappling with persistent issues in others.

Notebook