17 Million South Africans Apply For SRD Grant Amid Unemployment Concerns

Holifil

01 Apr, 2025

In September, a staggering 17 million people applied for the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) monthly grant.
SASSA has introduced new measures to stop fraudsters from exploiting the system.
With unemployment rates soaring, more South Africans are turning to the R370 SRD grant for financial relief.

SASSA remains calm despite the overwhelming number of SRD grant applications. Image: @DA_GPL/ RapidEye. Source: Getty Images

Let me tell you something incredible happening in South Africa right now. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has received an eye-popping 17 million applications for the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant just in September alone. That’s a lot of people looking for help, and it highlights the challenges many are facing in our country today.

The SRD grant, originally introduced as a R350 monthly payout during the toughest days of the coronavirus pandemic, has become a lifeline for millions of South Africans. Now, the amount has been bumped up to R370, providing much-needed support to those struggling to make ends meet. This grant isn’t just numbers—it’s real people trying to survive in tough times.

When you break it down by province, KwaZulu-Natal leads the pack with 4.4 million applicants, followed closely by Gauteng with 3.2 million, and Limpopo with 2.3 million. These numbers paint a vivid picture of the economic struggles being faced across the country.

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Why SASSA Isn’t Sweating the High Number of Applications

You might think that 17 million applications would send SASSA into a panic, but they’re surprisingly calm about the situation. SASSA spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi explained that not everyone who applies will qualify for the grant. He reassured the public that the final count will be much lower once all the applications are thoroughly reviewed.

Here’s the deal: SASSA is well aware that fraudsters are out there trying to take advantage of the system. They’re not taking this lightly. Paseka emphasized that anyone caught attempting to defraud the system will face serious consequences. SASSA isn’t messing around—they’re working hand-in-hand with law enforcement to ensure the system is protected and the funds reach those who truly need them.

SASSA Tightens the Screws to Prevent Fraud

To combat the rising tide of fraud cases, SASSA has stepped up its game with a new system for grant recipients. In the past, it was way too easy for fraudsters to change bank details and phone numbers without proper verification. This loophole allowed them to redirect funds to their accounts, leaving legitimate beneficiaries high and dry.

Now, here’s the good news: SASSA has implemented a new verification process. Recipients will need to use facial biometrics, which will be linked to Home Affairs, to confirm their identities. Once verified, they’ll be able to safely update their details. This move is a game-changer in ensuring that the grants end up in the right hands.

What South Africans Are Saying About the SRD Grant Surge

The conversation around the SRD grant isn’t just happening within SASSA’s walls. Everyday South Africans are weighing in on the matter. Sbusiso Mpontshane summed it up perfectly, saying, “This is the true reflection of where the country stands with unemployment rates.” It’s a stark reminder of the challenges we face as a nation.

“True reflection of where the country is with the unemployment rate.”

Annerine Maritz Vd Watt had a different take, pointing out, “The government is making it too easy for people to live off grants instead of creating job opportunities.” It’s a sentiment shared by many who believe that job creation should be the priority.

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“Government making it easy for people to live off grants instead of creating job opportunities.”

Masango Doctorsen offered a straightforward solution: “It’s simple. Get those 17 million South Africans into the job market. There’s plenty of work in South Africa, but little to no funding. If funding exists, corrupt individuals are finding ways to steal it.” It’s a call to action for the government to focus on empowering the workforce.

“It's simple. Get those 17 million South Africans into the job market. There is plenty of work in South Africa but little to no funding. If it’s there, cadres are plotting ways to steal some more.”

Mark Ritchie echoed the sentiment, adding, “We need to stop handing out grants and focus on creating jobs so people can earn their own money. The problem is that many people simply don’t want to work.” It’s a controversial opinion, but one that sparks debate about the country’s economic policies.

“Stop grants. Rather, create jobs so that people can earn money. The problem is people don't want to work.”

Cuban Moodley summed up the feelings of many, saying, “We are a welfare state.” It’s a statement that reflects the growing concern about dependency on government assistance.

“We are a welfare state.”

The Public’s Frustration With SASSA’s Performance

While SASSA is busy implementing new systems and addressing fraud, some South Africans are expressing their frustration with the organization’s performance. Briefly News reported that some citizens are fed up with the attitude of SASSA employees. Imagine walking into a SASSA branch, only to find the doors slammed shut right after the business day begins. That’s exactly what happened, leaving people standing outside, including an impatient granny who didn’t hesitate to voice her dissatisfaction.

This incident highlights the growing tension between the public and SASSA employees. People are tired of the inefficiencies and unprofessionalism that they’ve encountered. It’s clear that there’s work to be done on both sides—SASSA needs to improve its service delivery, and the public needs to remain patient while solutions are being implemented.