Welcome to the South Africa RCCE Social Listening Reports (2021–2023)

This collection brings together South Africa’s social listening reports from the COVID-19 pandemic. These reports were created by the National Department of Health to understand what people were talking about, worrying about, and asking during this time. Social listening means paying attention to public conversations, online and in communities, so that communication can be clearer and more helpful.

What the Collection Includes

The archive contains reports from 2021 to 2023, each capturing the main concerns and conversations of that period. You will also find summaries of key themes, examples of misinformation that circulated, and the COVID-19 figures that were publicly shared at the time. Together, these materials show how information moved and how people responded.

Why the Reports Matter

These reports offer insight into how South Africa listened to its people during a major health crisis. They show how public concerns shaped communication, how messaging changed over time, and how misinformation was addressed. Whether you are a researcher, a health worker, a student, or simply someone interested in your government’s response, this collection provides a clear window into that moment.

Looking Forward

By preserving these reports, the collection supports learning and reflection for future health responses. It keeps a record of how the country navigated a challenging period and how public feedback helped guide decision-making.