SASSA Social Grant Payment Increases After Four-Year Stegancy

South African Social Security Agency increases social grant payments April 2024 (Picture Courtesy: ITWeb)

Wendy Masombuka

(The Post News) – To alleviate financial strain on millions of South Africans, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has recently unveiled plans to boost social grant payments. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced this development earlier this year. The decision follows four years of stable payment amounts amid escalating inflation and living expenses. The increase will benefit a large portion of SASSA social grant recipients, encompassing the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and children.

The adjustment by SASSA indicates a notable increase in the monthly amount delivered to the old age pension, child support grant, and disability grant. With the economic pressures faced by recipients, the specific increase per grant category has been calculated carefully.

According to SASSA, the older person’s grant value depends on the recipient’s age. As of April 1, 2024, the old age pension is R2 180 per person per month for people between 60 and 74 years old and R2 200 per person per month for people who are 75 years old. The increase amounted to 5.6%. It is an increase of R90 per grant, with a further increase of R10 expected on October 1, 2024. This increase will impact regions in South Africa.

The Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana, stated that the augmented grant payments will be covered by reallocating funds from the national budget. While specific funding adjustments remain undisclosed, assurances have been given regarding the government’s accountability for all financial constraints.

In March, independent economic analyst Professor Bonke Dumisa said, “South Africa is unable to afford a basic income grant; it’s struggling even to sustain the R350 SRD grants”. This highlights the deep concerns among South Africans about unfulfilled promises due to the unstable economic landscape.

Community leader and activist Zodwa Malindi praised the increase as a “victory for social justice” but cautioned that “it should be seen as the start, not the end, of ongoing support.”

Amid economic uncertainties in South Africa, the rise in grant payments marks a pivotal stride in tackling poverty. This action underscores the government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable segments of society and aligns with the socio-economic rights enshrined in the nation’s constitution.