The executive says government remains committed to providing social assistance to the vulnerable and that grants will be paid come 1 April.
Communications Minister Nomvula Mokonyane on Thursday said Cabinet received a briefing on Wednesday on the state of readiness by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to carry out the hybrid model in the payment of social grants to beneficiaries on 1 April.
“This is in line with the Constitutional Court (ConCourt) judgement that ordered the extension of the current contract with Cash Paymaster Services (CPS) up until 31 March 2018,” Minister Mokonyane said during a post Cabinet media briefing held in Cape Town Thursday.
Minister Mokonyane emphasised that the current SASSA cards remain valid until December 2018, adding that “the process of changing the beneficiary cards will be done in a seamless manner that will not disrupt the payment of grants“.
Visit your nearest post office
Cabinet called on beneficiaries, who do not have bank accounts, to visit their nearest South African Police Office branch to open their accounts.
“Cabinet has instructed SASSA together with GCIS, to do everything possible to inform all the beneficiaries of any possible changes that may take place in the process of transition from CPS to the new hybrid model.
“Cabinet remains committed to ensuring government adheres to the ConCourt judgement. SASSA offices will be opened and ready to process the new applicants,” the Minister said.
Meanwhile, Cabinet urges all members of the public, especially beneficiaries, to contact SASSA on 0800 60 10 11 or visit the nearest SASSA office for more information. – SAnews.gov.za
