JOHANNESBURG – Concerns surrounding underspending on social relief grants are being addressed head-on by Social Development Minister Tolashe Sisisi, who has pledged decisive action to prevent future occurrences. The Auditor General’s report revealed a significant underspending of R4 billion by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) in the previous financial year, prompting immediate intervention from the Minister.
Minister Sisisi acknowledged the issue and emphasized the importance of allocating funds to those in need.
“We have realized some underspending in the grants,” the Minister stated. “Hence I’ve taken steps when I came into the office to say that is a matter that I have to deal with, especially in the 2024/25 financial year.”
Minister Sisisi has scheduled an important meeting with SASSA management next week to address this challenge. The aim is to collaboratively develop a robust strategy to prevent similar underspending in the future.
“I’m holding a strategy plan this next week with SASSA management so, between us and them, we can develop a strategy to address such problems so that they don’t repeat themselves,” she explained.
While highlighting the need for better financial management, Minister Sisisi also acknowledged the challenges SASSA has faced. “However, the difficulties that they had, we understand them,” she said. “That we are fighting back. That doesn’t happen again.”
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