The Department of Social Development (DSD) recently announced that during the 2023/24 financial year, a staggering 19,137,524 core social grants were distributed monthly through the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA).
These grants include Old-Age Grants, Childcare Grants, Disability Grants, and War Veterans Grants. Notably, this figure does not account for the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) stipend, which supports approximately 9 million additional recipients.
According to The Citizen, the significant distribution of grants highlights both the extent of poverty alleviation efforts and the reliance of many South Africans on the social welfare system.
SASSA Childcare Grants: Impact on the Population
The sheer scale of social grant recipients is both alarming and hopeful, as it equates to nearly one-third of South Africa’s population. When SRD beneficiaries are included, this percentage escalates to an astounding 45% of the country’s residents.
This revelation came in response to a parliamentary question posed by Bridget Masango, the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Social Development.
The SASSA Childcare Grants and Old-Age Grants remain the largest categories of core social beneficiaries, consuming a substantial portion of the national budget.
Breakdown of SASSA Child Support Grants
Current Child Support Grant Payment
Currently, the SASSA Child Support Grant provides R530 per child monthly. This grant is not only the largest in terms of recipients but also the most expensive for the government.
- With 13,218,701 children benefiting from this grant, the cumulative cost is significant.
- If a child receives support from birth until their 18th birthday, the total grant value sums up to approximately R135,550 per child.
- When this figure is scaled up to 13 million beneficiaries, the total expenditure reaches an astronomical R1.7 trillion.
Provincial Distribution of SASSA Child Support Grants
Below is a detailed breakdown of SASSA Child Support Grants by province. Interestingly, KwaZulu-Natal leads with the highest number of beneficiaries, reflecting its population size and socio-economic needs.
| 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 |
This data highlights regional disparities, with provinces like KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo showing disproportionately high numbers of recipients compared to regions with smaller populations, such as Northern Cape.
Proposal to Extend Child Support Beyond 18 Years
A recent proposal brought forward by Alexandra Lilian Amelia Abrahams (DA) addressed concerns about vulnerable schoolchildren who require financial support beyond the age of 18, especially those still completing their matric studies.
In response, the Department of Social Development (DSD) clarified that the current R530 Child Support Grant only caters to children up to the age of 18. However, alternative social welfare programs, such as the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, are available for adults who meet the necessary criteria.
FAQs
How many SASSA core grants were distributed monthly in 2023/24?
Approximately 19,137,524 core grants were distributed monthly via SASSA during the 2023/24 financial year.
What is the value of the SASSA Child Support Grant in 2024?
The SASSA Child Support Grant currently provides R530 per eligible child per month.
Which province has the highest number of Child Support Grant beneficiaries?
KwaZulu-Natal has the highest number, with 3,007,403 children receiving the grant.
