The Department of Social Development has reported that a total of 19,137,524 South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) social grants are allocated monthly during the 2023/24 financial year. This figure excludes recipients of the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant.
This significant number accounts for nearly one-third of South Africa’s population, reflecting the country’s extensive reliance on social support systems. Among the beneficiaries, child support grants and old age grants represent the largest recipient groups.
These statistics emerged in a response by the Minister of Social Development’s office to a parliamentary question raised by Bridget Staff Masango, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Social Development.
Breakdown of SASSA Social Grants
The Sassa social grant distribution includes various beneficiary categories. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
| Type of Grant | Number of Beneficiaries |
|---|---|
| Child Support Grants (0-18) | 13,218,701 |
| Old-Age Grants | 4,041,763 |
| Disability Grants | 1,056,270 |
| Care-Dependency Grants | 165,764 |
| Foster Child Grants | 253,256 |
| Grant-in-Aid Recipients | 401,761 |
| War Veterans Grants | 9 |
Child Support Grants by Province
The highest number of child support grant beneficiaries is recorded in KwaZulu-Natal, with 3,007,403 recipients. Below is the provincial breakdown:
| Province | Number of Beneficiaries |
|---|---|
| KwaZulu-Natal | 3,007,403 |
| Gauteng | 2,046,204 |
| Limpopo | 2,002,516 |
| Eastern Cape | 1,956,118 |
| Mpumalanga | 1,206,851 |
| Western Cape | 1,036,547 |
| North West | 917,393 |
| Free State | 709,323 |
| Northern Cape | 336,346 |
Policy Discussions on Child Support Grants
DA MP Alexandra Lilian Amelia Abrahams raised the possibility of extending the child support grant (CSG) to assist vulnerable schoolchildren older than 18 until they complete their matriculation.
In response, the Minister of Social Development clarified that the current CSG only applies to children up to 18 years of age. However, alternative programs are available for those who surpass this age limit.
The department highlighted the temporary Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress (cSRD) grant as an option for individuals who are no longer eligible for child support grants. Additionally, it noted that a long-term policy is being developed to replace the temporary cSRD grant, ensuring ongoing support for vulnerable populations.
Challenges Facing Old-Age Grants
The Association for the Aged (Tafta) has emphasized that the Sassa old-age grant falls short of meeting elderly citizens’ basic needs.
In a statement, Tafta remarked:
“The Sassa old-age grant is clearly not sufficient to live on. The additional R20 for those aged 75 or older makes minimal difference. Life remains a daily struggle for South Africa’s state pensioners.”
Tafta also pointed out that many pensioners did not earn sufficient income during their working years to support their families, let alone save for retirement. Consequently, upon reaching their 60s and 70s, a significant portion of pensioners rely entirely on their social grants.
According to the organization:
- 47% of pensioners depend on financial support from their families or friends.
Survival Strategies for the Elderly
Tafta highlighted several strategies to help pensioners navigate financial difficulties, particularly those with limited family support:
- Shared Accommodation:
Living with grown-up children, family members, or friends can help pensioners avoid rent costs or contribute only a small amount towards shared expenses. - Shared Expenses:
Living together allows individuals to pool resources for meals, transportation, and utilities, making day-to-day living more affordable.
However, Tafta also expressed concern for pensioners who lack family support, describing their situation as particularly dire. The organization stressed the importance of social support systems to safeguard the most vulnerable elderly populations.
Key Takeaways
- Sassa Social Grants: Over 19 million South Africans receive social grants, with child support and old-age grants being the most prominent categories.
- Provincial Distribution: KwaZulu-Natal leads in child support grant recipients, followed by Gauteng and Limpopo.
- Policy Considerations: While extending child support grants beyond 18 is debated, the temporary Covid-19 SRD grant offers interim relief.
- Elderly Challenges: The old-age grant is insufficient, prompting many pensioners to rely on family support or shared living arrangements.
FAQs
How many people receive SASSA social grants in 2023/24?
A total of 19,137,524 social grants are distributed monthly, excluding the R370 SRD grant.
Which grant has the highest number of beneficiaries?
The child support grant for children aged 0-18 has the largest group, with 13,218,701 recipients.
What options exist for children aged over 18 who need support?
Those aged out of the child support grant can apply for the Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress (cSRD) grant as a temporary measure.
