The Uneven Geography of the Covid-19 Crisis

This report analyses the impact of the pandemic on different parts of South Africa. It compares the severity of the initial COVID-19 shock (February-April 2020) and the subsequent trajectory (April-June) of the metros, smaller cities/towns and rural areas. It also considers the different impacts within cities – between suburbs, townships, shack areas and peri-urban areas. The report reveals that the pandemic has magnified the existing economic and social divides (i) between cities and rural areas, and (ii) between suburbs and townships/informal set tlements within cities.

This short media article summarises the findings, and this short article draws out some policy implications for townships and informal settlements. 

For the Policy Brief connected with this work see here.