Unlocking impact: Explore the power of Corporate Social Investment in SA

By Raine St.Claire

Driven by a moral commitment to foster positive social change, South African companies are evolving their Corporate Social Investment (CSI) efforts. The majority of their R11.8-billion corporate social investment (CSI) in 2023 was directed toward supporting non-profit organisations (NPOs). This marks a significant increase of R0.9-billion (8.26%) from the estimated R10.9-billion spent on CSI allocations in the 2022 financial year.

CSI sector focus: Education, social development and food security

The focus is on achieving systemic impact through collaboration, research, networking, and thought leadership, even in the face of government budget cuts. 

The primary areas of emphasis in the development sector - education, social and community development, and food security and agriculture - have remained consistent. 

Unlike the trends observed in the United States, where 25% of CSI spending is allocated to health and social services on average, South African companies dedicate only 6% on average to the health sector in 2023. Although there has been a slight decrease in support for education, it remains a top priority for local companies, with an increase in average spending.

Education

• • Support declined from 98% in 2022 to 78% in 2023
  • Average spending increased from 44% to 48%

Social and Community Development

• • Supported by 74% of companies
  • Average allocation is 13% of CSI
    
    

  Food Security and Agriculture

  • Supported by 60% of companies
  • Average allocation is 9% of CSI