Perspective Chapter: Determinative Factors for Bridging Social Inequality Gaps – A South African Perspective

Abstract

South Africa’s society has been significantly impacted by its colonial past and apartheid policies, resulting in long-lasting disparities based on race, class, and gender. Historical events have shaped the social structures and organisations that maintain inequality. The country exhibits pronounced income inequality, exacerbating social inequalities by impeding individuals with limited resources from accessing necessities and opportunities for upward social mobility. This study is a literature review that uses qualitative content analysis and an inductive approach as the methodological framework. It aims to investigate the factors contributing to bridging gaps in social inequality in South Africa. The findings indicate that several key factors, such as limited access to quality education, basic services, and employment opportunities, have contributed to social inequality in South Africa. The government has implemented redistribution of wealth, affirmative action, black empowerment, subsidised education and skills training to improve employment prospects, low-cost health services, and affordable housing to reduce socio-economic inequalities. However, corruption and a lack of political will pose significant obstacles and constraints. The government needs to address these barriers and develop comprehensive policies to reduce social inequality in the country.