In a disheartening start to 2024, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is under fire for failing its most vulnerable citizens, according to Western Cape Minister Sharna Fernandez.
Complaints flooded in during the festive season, revealing a slew of issues faced by grant beneficiaries.
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Beneficiaries reported unavailability of Older Persons Grant funds at retailers. A cumbersome Old Age Grant application process with no feedback, and communication gaps in updating Social Relief of Distress grants.
Woman faces 4-month payment delay
Delays in transferring payouts from retailers or the Post Office to bank accounts were also highlighted. With one woman waiting four months for her September 2023 details change to reflect in her January 2024 payment.
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With only one person in SASSA’s Western Cape office addressing complaints for 390 000 beneficiaries, Minister Fernandez expressed dismay at the agency’s neglect.
Reports surfaced of 150 000 beneficiaries not receiving January payouts due to incorrect banking details, a matter SASSA attributed to applicants.
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SASSA statement
In a statement by SASSA, the agency states: “This was due to incorrect banking details provided when beneficiaries were applying for grants or changing their methods of payments.”
Minister Fernandez raised concerns about the lack of public communication and transparency from SASSA.
“The public deserves transparency. They deserve better than what the national government is currently serving,” said Fernandez.
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Expressing frustration with Minister Lindiwe Zulu’s silence, Minister Fernandez called for clear, honest answers and improved communication channels between the national department and provinces assisting distressed citizens.
South Africans were urged to voice their concerns to the national government for a better social grant system.
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