Enoch Godongwana, South Africa's Finance Minister, delivered promising news on Wednesday, March 13th, announcing a significant increase in all social grants. Addressing the nation during his budget speech, he revealed plans to augment SASSA grants starting from the upcoming financial year of 2024/25. This development comes as a boon for South Africans grappling with the current inflationary pressures.

With approximately 28 million individuals in South Africa depending on SASSA grants, which represent 43% of the total population, this decision holds substantial importance. Notably, SASSA disbursed approximately R217.1 billion during the financial year 2023/24 on social grants. Now, with the SASSA increase, the allocation is set to rise to R259.3 billion by the financial year 2026/27. This 4.8% surge in social grants is poised to provide much-needed relief for grant beneficiaries, aiding them in navigating the challenges posed by inflation and the rising cost of living.