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South Africa (SA) presents a complex picture for those seeking to understand giving and generosity. While SA is classified as a middle-income country, it is also home to one of the highest levels of inequality globally, where extreme wealth and deep poverty exist side by side.
Despite these inequalities, traditions of solidarity and mutual support remain deeply embedded in South African society, driven by the practice of Ubuntu, often summarised as "I am because we are", emphasising a shared humanity. The findings of the CAF World Giving Report suggest that this ethos is very much alive in SA today.
Of those who reported giving money, goods or time, 64% of South Africans in the study reported a preference for giving directly to a person or family in need, not including their own families and friends. This significant score speaks directly to the practice of Ubuntu. In addition, the findings indicate that South Africans place high levels of trust in non-profit organisations (NPOs), because they consistently deliver direct, critical services at a community level, often reaching vulnerable groups faster than formal institutions. They also maintain close relationships with the communities they serve and understand local needs. In times of crisis and disasters, NPOs are frequently the first responders, providing immediate relief, support and co-ordination when help is needed most.
Therefore, even in a context of economic pressure and inequality, people continue to support one another through acts of kindness and generosity. These practices highlight the resilience of social bonds and the enduring role of Ubuntu in shaping how South Africans respond to need and support their communities.
How often did you give money away in 2025, either to charity, a person or family in need, or to a religious organisation?
The average proportion of income people gave to each of the three donation routes, and overall.
What would you say are the main reasons that you gave / did not give money away in 2025?
Which cause(s) did you donate to / do unpaid voluntary work for in 2025?
Of the total value of your donations to charities in 2025, approximately how much went to each of the following?
To what extent, if at all, have charities had a positive or negative impact in your local community, or have they made no difference?
For the last charity that you gave money to, how did you first find out about them?
How trustworthy do you tend to find each of these types of charities?
How could charities encourage you to donate in 2026?
Of the xx% that did unpaid, voluntary work in 2025 that benefitted people other than their family or friends, how many shifts did they do?
Think about the opportunities you have to get involved in making positive changes to society (whether locally or further afield). Which best describes your perspective?
"The Government encourages people to give to charity." Do you...
Southern Africa Philanthropy Foundation (SAPF) is a Johannesburg-based non-profit organisation that works to strengthen philanthropy and civil society across Southern Africa. Established in 1997, and formerly known as CAF Southern Africa (CAFSA), the foundation acts as an intermediary between donors, corporations and civil society organisations, helping to facilitate effective giving, volunteering and social investment.
SAPF is also an implementing partner and through advisory services, research and partnerships, SAPF supports funders and non-profit organisations to channel resources more effectively and contribute to a resilient and accountable civil society in the region.
Southern Africa Philanthropy Foundation (SAPF) is a Johannesburg-based non-profit organisation that works to strengthen philanthropy and civil society across Southern Africa. Established in 1997, and formerly known as CAF Southern Africa (CAFSA), the foundation acts as an intermediary between donors, corporations and civil society organisations, helping to facilitate effective giving, volunteering and social investment.
SAPF is also an implementing partner and through advisory services, research and partnerships, SAPF supports funders and non-profit organisations to channel resources more effectively and contribute to a resilient and accountable civil society in the region.
