Former Gomora actress Leera Mthethwa, remembered by many for her role as Mrs Jackie Hlongwane, has turned heads once again. This time it is not for her performance on screen, but for her reaction to Shoprite’s surprisingly low price on a beef potjie, advertised at just R8.77.
A voice that resonates
Taking to social media, Mthethwa applauded the retailer for trying to make food accessible, saying the initiative helps ensure that people can still share a meal even when money is tight. Her sentiment struck a chord with South Africans who are battling the cost of living.
Public reaction
The response was immediate and mixed. Some praised Shoprite, saying the supermarket continues to consider the struggles of ordinary households. Others dismissed the offer, arguing that the price of cooking ingredients and electricity outweighs the benefit of such a bargain. For some, it was seen as a symbolic gesture rather than a practical solution.
Beyond the price tag
The conversation reflects a bigger reality in Johannesburg and across the country. Food prices are one thing, but true affordability includes the hidden costs of transport, energy, and preparation. An R8.77 meal might sound like a lifesaver, but the question remains: can it truly fill a plate once all the extras are factored in?
I’m actually a big fan of Shoprite’s efforts to make sure that as many people eat as possible; no matter how little we have. ❤️ https://t.co/tC6ZaNr9Hw
— Leera Mthethwa (@LeeraMthethwa) September 9, 2025
Why it matters now
South Africans have been vocal about inflation and food insecurity. Small deals and specials often become talking points because they represent more than savings; they highlight the gap between what people need and what they can actually afford. Mthethwa’s reaction shows how much hope people place in affordable basics and how strongly they respond when big retailers step into that space.
The unanswered questions
It is still unclear whether Shoprite’s potjie price is part of a larger, ongoing strategy or simply a promotional headline grabber. What is certain, though, is that the debate has revealed how tightly food costs are woven into the daily lives of South Africans and how even a single price tag can spark national conversation.
Source: Briefly News
Featured Image: News24
