The realisation of the right to social security during COVID-19 in Africa: Case studies of Cameroon, Kenya and South Africa

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed and further exacerbated the inequalities that existed within states. The right to social security constituted a crucial part of the response to COVID-19 in various African states. This was premised on the recognition of the social cost associated with the pandemic, particularly the impact of lockdowns on populations. This paper interrogates how three African countries (Cameroon, Kenya and South Africa) fulfilled their obligations at the peak of the pandemic with respect to the right to social security. Contrary to what is often assumed, these countries made important strides in assisting households through the loss of livelihoods caused by the pandemic. However, our finding concluded that the informal sector (which is a major source of income) was not adequately addressed, nor were the needs of the most vulnerable sufficiently met. The countries did not have sufficiently comprehensive social security policies to respond effectively to the pandemic. African governments need to invest more money, time and human resources into strengthening the resilience of social security systems and addressing the persistent challenges of corruption, lack of proper planning, and absence of data which confront those who need help the most and prevent rationalisation of the debt burden.