Deputy Minister of Social Development and President of Al Jama-ah, Hon. Ganief Hendricks, has tabled Budget Vote 19 in Parliament, positioning social protection as a central instrument in restoring dignity and addressing poverty in South Africa.
Speaking in the National Assembly, Hendricks emphasised that the budget comes at a time when “millions of South Africans rely on the social wage for dignity, hope, and survival.” He described the allocation of over R302 billion as a reaffirmation of government’s commitment to protect vulnerable communities.
At the centre of this effort is the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), which Hendricks said continues to fulfil its constitutional mandate by “paying the right social grant, to the right person, njalo.” This function remains critical in ensuring dignity and stability for millions of beneficiaries.
Marking 20 years of SASSA, Hendricks highlighted the agency’s legacy in advancing inclusion, reducing poverty, and restoring hope. He described the milestone as a reflection of the agency’s vital role in South Africa’s social development framework.
The Deputy Minister outlined key priorities, including strengthening family and parenting programmes, noting that families are often “at the receiving end of poverty” and require targeted interventions, including psychosocial support and community engagement.
He confirmed the extension of the Social Relief of Distress grant, which continues to serve as a crucial support mechanism for vulnerable households. The Department will continue to work closely with the National Development Agency and civil society organisations to improve food security, support skills development, and create economic opportunities.
Addressing substance abuse, Hendricks emphasised that it “continues to rob many individuals of their future,” contributing to gender-based violence, crime, and social instability. Additional resources have therefore been allocated to strengthen prevention and intervention programmes.
He further highlighted the Department’s work in protecting older persons, including the enactment of the Older Persons Amendment legislation, as well as ongoing efforts to address HIV and AIDS through partnerships with non-profit organisations.
Hendricks reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to persons with disabilities, ensuring inclusion and equal access to social services in line with constitutional principles.
In conclusion, Hendricks stated that Budget Vote 19 is fundamentally about “restoring dignity, reducing vulnerability, and ensuring that no South African is left behind.” He called on Parliament to support the budget as a critical investment in building a more equitable and caring society.
Deputy minister of Social Development & President of AL Jama-ah
