The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has deployed 143 contract workers across Gauteng local offices in a bid to reduce long queues, improve service delivery and assist with the ongoing social grant review process that has increased pressure on service centres.
The additional workers assumed duty this week and will support frontline operations, including grant reviews, eLife Certification and general client services.
SASSA Gauteng said the appointments form part of broader interventions aimed at improving beneficiary experience and reducing waiting times at local offices.
“Their appointment is aimed at strengthening frontline service capacity, improving client flow, reducing waiting times and providing additional operational support to local offices,” the agency said.
According to SASSA, local offices have experienced increased client volumes in recent months, largely driven by ongoing social grant reviews and eLife Certification processes.
The agency said these reviews are necessary to ensure that grants continue to be paid only to qualifying beneficiaries. Beneficiaries selected for review are notified via SMS and required to visit a SASSA office to complete the process.
To manage the increased workload, SASSA has introduced a dedicated fourth payment day each month for beneficiaries whose grants are due for review.
“Social grants due for a review are paid on the additional payment day, rather than during the normal three-day payment cycle, a direct signal for the beneficiary to visit a SASSA office for a review,” the agency said.
SASSA warned that beneficiaries who fail to comply with review requirements risk having their grants suspended.
The agency said delays often occur because some beneficiaries do not respond to review notifications, while others fail to receive messages due to outdated contact information, resulting in a surge of clients seeking assistance at a later stage.
Beyond the recruitment of additional staff, SASSA said it is strengthening queue management systems, prioritising vulnerable groups such as older persons, people living with disabilities and pregnant women, and expanding public awareness campaigns to educate beneficiaries about available services.
The agency is also encouraging beneficiaries to make use of its digital platforms for services such as eLife Certification and grant applications to reduce unnecessary visits to offices.
Meanwhile, SASSA condemned the illegal practice of individuals reserving and selling queue positions outside local offices.
“The Agency also condemns the illegal practice of reserving and selling queue positions to beneficiaries, which exploits vulnerable members of the public and contributes to unnecessary congestion at local offices,” the statement said.
SASSA added that it is working with law enforcement authorities to ensure those involved in the practice are prosecuted.
The agency said it remains committed to improving operational efficiency and ensuring that eligible beneficiaries receive social assistance “with dignity and respect.”
IOL News
Wendy Dondolo
iol.co.za
