Google released some of its top-searched results, and South Africans are asking many of the right questions. One, in particular, revealed something hopeful!
South Africa (7 April, 2023) — In a month that brought us a cabinet reshuffle, protests, a Hollywood-style prison break and the deaths of two high-profile musicians, we had a pretty busy March on Google and in our country.
On the flip side of the coin, March also gave us cyclists who gave it their all for animals in need, heroes disguised as waitresses, cuddling elephants, and artists who raised thousands for local children.
Amidst it all, Saffers had a lot of curiosity and questions for the internet. And yes, ‘what is inflation’ was a hot topic.
Fishing through thousands of search queries (40 000 a second!) Google compiled the most searched questions. Some will make you laugh. Others will make you say ‘same’ and one or two will make you a little more proud to be South African.
Coming in curious at the fifth spot on the most searched questions:
“What is the most direct way to alleviate poverty in South Africa?” — South Africans.
Here’s Why it Matters:
To have thousands of people asking the same question means two things. Firstly, that South Africans want solutions. Secondly, they’re looking for said solutions themselves.
The question wasn’t ‘How is the government solving the poverty problem?’. Nor was it ‘Why is there poverty in South Africa?’ It asked for specific answers. Directions. And we think that’s pretty powerful. After all, if enough people ask questions like this and act on the answers, how could change not come about?
And, for your curiosity here’s the full list.
SA’s Most Googled Questions in March
1.’What is Chatgpt?’
It is, taking over the world after all (partially joking).
2.’Who is Thabo Bester?’
We’ll say less.
3.’Who is the Minister of Finance?’
Always good to know.
4.’Who is Nhlanla Lux?’
5.’What is the most direct way to alleviate poverty in South Africa?’
THE question.
6.’What is climate change?’
We’re all catching on!
7.’Who is the Minister of Electricity?’
Eish.
8.’What is inflation?’
Sometimes ignorance is bliss.
9.’What is human rights day?’
A powerful reminder.