South African Social Security announced last week that it will increase social grants next year. In order to announce these increases, we now know when they will be announced.
Cyril Ramaphosa announced that the South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) will increase grants distributed as part of the State of the Nation Address (SONA) in 2023.
How Much Do Pensioners Get From SASSA 2023?
According to the president, the increased social grants are part of the government’s attempt to mitigate the effects of rising living costs.
Ramaphosa said, “We will ensure that existing social grants are increased to cushion the poor against rising inflation.”
Grants distributed by Sassa include grant programs for older persons, disabled persons, children with disabilities, foster children, war veterans, and people with care needs.
When Will The Sassa Grant Increases Be Announced?
As part of the SONA address, the president said that the Minister of Finance would provide details of government grants spending in the budget.
The National Budget Speech for 2023 will be delivered by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwna on 22 February 2023.
Ramaphosa also stated that more than 25 million people receive income support in one form or another. Approximately 60% of the country’s budget is allocated for this social support.
In his speech, the president said, “Around 60% of our budget goes towards providing various forms of assistance, basic services and support to households and individuals who are experiencing poverty.
This program currently provides free basic water, free basic electricity, and free solid waste disposal to around two million households.