Chronic Delays in Sassa Grant Payments Thandi Henkeman of Black Sash Urges Accountability.In a recent interview with Thandi Henkeman, the Regional Manager of Black Sash in the Western and Northern Cape, concerns were raised about the persistent delays in South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) grant payments.
These delays have left many beneficiaries struggling to access their funds due to technical glitches experienced by Postbank. In this article, we delve into the details of the issue and Henkeman’s perspective on the matter.
The Technical Glitches and Restoration
Earlier this week, Postbank’s technical glitches had left Sassa beneficiaries in a state of desperation as they were unable to withdraw their funds. Bongani Diako, the spokesperson for Postbank, later confirmed that access to all ATM Sassa grant transactions had been fully restored. This announcement was welcomed as it meant that beneficiaries with Postbank Sassa Gold cards could once again access their grants via ATMs and Post Office branches.
Ongoing Issues for Pensioners
Despite the restoration of services, numerous Sassa beneficiaries, particularly pensioners, continued to face difficulties in accessing their grants. Thandi Henkeman points out that these payment issues have persisted since Postbank took over the payments from the Post Office in 2022. According to her, Postbank’s systems are ill-equipped to handle these payments, resulting in breaches and disruptions in the distribution process. This, in turn, means that funds are not reaching all intended beneficiary accounts.
Department of Social Development Responsibility
While Postbank bears the brunt of these issues, Henkeman emphasizes that the ultimate responsibility lies with the Department of Social Development. It is their obligation to protect and ensure the timely and dignified distribution of social assistance to beneficiaries. She views this as a national issue that demands accountability from the Department of Social Development.
Henkeman Call for Accountability
Thandi Henkeman, Regional Manager of Black Sash in the Western and Northern Cape, underscores the importance of holding the Department of Social Development accountable. She insists that it is imperative to ensure that beneficiaries receive their grants in full and on time. Henkeman highlights the fact that since Postbank took over the payment responsibilities last year, there has yet to be a smooth-running payment month.
Conclusion
Thandi Henkeman’s perspective sheds light on the ongoing challenges surrounding Sassa grant payments and emphasizes the need for accountability to ensure beneficiaries’ rights to social assistance are fulfilled promptly and with dignity.