"This is equivalent to an estimated R60 billion a year. In a country where an estimated 14 million people go to bed hungry every night, this is a monumental unnecessary waste, which cannot be allowed to continue," Setati said. CGCSA co-chairperson Gareth Ackerman said that by developing the Voluntary Agreement, CGCSA is making a bold call to South African food manufacturers, distributors and retailers to commit themselves to prevent and reduce food waste. "Given that South Africa's retailers sell approximately 80% of the food consumed in the country, they sit at a critical point in the value chain to influence changes to reduce some of the food waste South Africa generates each year," Ackerman said. Ackerman acknowledged support from CGCSA members, including Massmart, Danone, Tiger Brands, Pick 'n Pay, Woolworths and Shoprite, which have already pledged to support the initiative. "Many more members are signing up because they believe it is the right thing to do.