SASSA releases November social grant payment dates

SASSA has released the payment dates for November, so you can know when to expect your social grant.

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has confirmed the payment dates for social grants this November, ensuring beneficiaries stay informed.

Payment schedule for November 2024:

Older Persons/Pensioners’ Grant: Tuesday, 5 November 2024

Disability Grant: Wednesday, 6 November 2024

Children’s Grant: Thursday, 7 November 2024

SASSA urges beneficiaries to plan their withdrawals wisely: “There is no need to rush to withdraw cash on the first day. Once the money is in the account, it will remain there until it is needed.”

Beneficiaries can conveniently collect their grants from selected supermarkets such as Pick n Pay, Boxer, USave, Checkers, and Shoprite. Use your SASSA card or opt for direct bank transfers for easy access to funds.

Alarming security threats: Fraud and corruption in focus

Recent reports from the Democratic Alliance reveal a troubling situation. The international hacker group N4aughtysecGroup claims to have gained access to SASSA’s systems, threatening to leak sensitive data. This group has already stolen R175 million from SASSA, targeting vulnerable citizens.

Fraud and corruption are real issues, not mere “myth or propaganda” as the ANC suggested in recent debates. The rapid rollout of systems like the SRD R370 grant has opened doors for criminals, costing taxpayers and vulnerable South Africans hundreds of millions of rands.

SASSA faces accountability: A call for change

SASSA plans to address these issues in parliament on 27 November 2024, following a 30-day extension to investigate the alleged fraud. The Democratic Alliance insists on several actions:

Prioritise Funding for the Inspectorate: The independent Inspectorate for Social Assistance needs adequate resources as envisioned in Chapter 4 of the Social Assistance Act.

Leadership Accountability: The CEO of SASSA must resign to ensure accountability at the top levels.

Immediate Investigations: The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) must probe the ongoing fraud within SASSA, as internal investigations are insufficient.

Strengthening security

SASSA requires urgent upgrades to its IT security, payment, and biometric verification systems. There must be real consequences for those involved in fraud, regardless of their position.

The DA has introduced the “Cyber Commission Bill” to Parliament, aiming to establish a dedicated body for regulating cyber security in South Africa. In today’s digital age, especially amidst the ongoing SASSA crisis, it’s crucial to ensure that institutions can safeguard citizens’ personal data effectively.

Empowering beneficiaries against fraud

SASSA beneficiaries must receive comprehensive education on fraud prevention and reporting mechanisms. Awareness campaigns can significantly help them navigate potential threats.

Ultimately, the drive to eliminate corruption needs strong political support. The DA remains committed to holding SASSA accountable for its failures. This message comes from Alexandra Abrahams, the DA Deputy Spokesperson on Social Development.