South Africa Introduces Basic Income Support: SRD Grant Paves the Way!
Immediate Relief Through the SRD Grant
While employment and earning opportunities are the best mechanisms to combat poverty, immediate relief is crucial. This urgency led to the introduction of the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant and other supportive programs.
President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized the significance of the SRD grant, stating, “The SRD Grant has provided a lifeline to millions of unemployed people.” Currently, millions of people apply for the SRD grant each month, with around 10 million eligible for payments.
A Foundation for Permanent Income Support
Ramaphosa announced that the SRD grant would serve as the foundation for introducing permanent income support for the unemployed. “We will use this grant as a basis for the introduction of a sustainable form of income support for unemployed people to address the challenge of income poverty,” he said.
Meanwhile, he urged local governments to ensure elderly, disabled, and impoverished citizens receive necessary assistance for basic services through the indigent policy. This policy helps poor households pay for essential services like water and electricity within municipal affordability.
Linking Social Assistance with Other Support
Importantly, the government will link social assistance with other forms of support to lift people out of poverty. This integrated approach aims to provide comprehensive support to the most vulnerable citizens.
Introduction of Basic Income Support Policy
Earlier this week, Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe confirmed that the SRD grant’s extension until March 2025 provides an opportunity to finalize the draft policy on basic income support.
“The extension of the SRD Grant until March 2025 has given us adequate time to finalize the Draft Policy on Basic Income Support, which will be tabled in Cabinet this financial year,” Tolashe stated.
This draft policy is set to be presented to the Cabinet during the 2024/2025 financial year. “This forms part of our social security reforms towards establishing the comprehensive social security system envisioned in the National Development Plan,” Tolashe added.
Moving Towards a Basic Income Grant
By addressing immediate needs and planning for long-term support, South Africa moves closer to implementing a basic income grant, aiming to uplift the unemployed and reduce poverty nationwide.
South Africa has high levels of inequality, with millions of people struggling to put food on the table and make ends meet. Many experts have been engaging in talks about implementing a Universal Basic Income Grant as a means of putting an end to poverty in the country.
How to Apply for the SRD Grant
To apply for the SRD grant, click the link below and submit your details:
