- Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana revealed that a few SASSA grants will see an increase in October.
- The Older Persons Grant, Disability Grant, War Veterans Grant, and Childcare Dependency Grant will be affected.
- South Africans express dissatisfaction with the modest increase, calling it an insult to grant recipients nationwide.
SASSA grant recipients are set to receive their final increment of the year in October, but not all grants will see a change. While some grants will experience a slight bump, others will remain unchanged, leaving many questioning the fairness of the decision.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana made the announcement during his February budget speech, detailing that certain grants would receive increases split into two separate payments. The first increase was handed out in April, and now, the second installment is scheduled for October. But let's take a closer look at who benefits and why this news has sparked frustration among the public.
Which Grants Are Getting a Boost?
Not all grants are created equal when it comes to this October adjustment. Recipients of the Older Persons Grant, Disability Grant, War Veterans Grant, and Childcare Dependency Grant will see a modest rise. However, those relying on Child Support Grants, Foster Care Grants, and the Social Relief of Distress (COVID Grant) will not receive any additional funds this time around. This uneven distribution has left many feeling overlooked and undervalued.
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How Much of an Increase Can We Expect?
Starting in October, individuals aged between 60 and 74 years will see a R10 bump in their Older Persons Grant, raising their total to R2,190. Pensioners who are 75 years or older will also receive a R10 increase, bringing their monthly payout to R2,210. Similarly, recipients of the Disability Grant and Childcare Dependency Grant will see their totals rise to R2,190, thanks to the same R10 adjustment. The War Veterans Grant will also see a R10 hike, aligning it with the others at R2,190. While these changes may seem minor, they highlight the ongoing struggle many face in making ends meet.
Public Reaction: Is R10 Enough?
Despite the announcement being made back in February, the reaction from the public has been far from positive. Many South Africans have taken to social media to voice their dissatisfaction with what they perceive as a token gesture. The widespread discontent reflects the growing gap between the government's actions and the needs of its citizens.
@aliwolshoal expressed her frustration:
“An increase of R10? That’s such a slap in the face. It’s insulting to everyone who depends on these grants for survival.”
Beulah Mohamed added her thoughts:
“This is a disgrace. How can anyone think this is acceptable? The cost of living is skyrocketing, and we can’t even afford basic necessities with such a measly increase.”
Diane Van Niekerk Human joked sarcastically:
“R10? Wow, now I’m spoiled for choice! Maybe I’ll splurge on a Chappie and some Wilson Toffees.”
Lindiwe Nkosi questioned the disparity:
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“How much does the President earn each month? It’s insulting to our people. Food prices are through the roof, and this is all we’re given?”
Abraham Fitz highlighted the hypocrisy:
“A R10 increase for pensioners while government officials get a R100 million salary boost? What kind of leadership is this? South Africa deserves better.”
Rosemary Thompson summed up the sentiment:
“The government gives disgraceful increases to pensioners. You should be ashamed of yourselves. This is not enough to survive on.”
Mzansi’s Growing Frustration with SASSA
This dissatisfaction isn’t new. Briefly News has previously reported on the mounting frustration with SASSA’s operations. Citizens have expressed their exasperation with the organization’s handling of grant disbursements and customer service. A notable incident involved employees at a SASSA branch closing the office doors shortly after the business day began, leaving anxious applicants stranded outside. One particularly vocal granny didn’t hesitate to voice her irritation, sparking further outrage among those present.
The combination of minimal grant increases and poor service delivery has left many South Africans feeling abandoned by the very systems designed to support them. As the country grapples with economic challenges and rising living costs, the need for meaningful change becomes increasingly urgent. It’s clear that more needs to be done to ensure that every South African receives the dignity and support they deserve.
