SASSA failure to deliver social relief after disasters hurts the poor
The Western Cape MEC of Social Development, Albert Fritz, will seek an urgent meeting with the National Minister of Social Development, Susan Shabangu, to address concerns over the non-delivery of disaster relief in the province by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA).
The SASSA is a national entity run by the National Department of Social Development (DSD). Provincial DSD has no operational control over SASSA.
It is concerning to note a growing trend in communities across the province which have experienced service delivery delays or have been left unassisted by SASSA, after a major incident or disaster. The latest being a fire devastated community in Reimvasmaak, outside Cape Town.
SASSA, as the budget holder for the provision of social relief in times of disaster or when people face undue hardship, is legally mandated under the Social Assistance Act of 2004 to assist.
It is simply unacceptable that SASSA is failing to deliver after it announced it would take over the distribution of social relief, which includes providing temporary grants, food parcels/vouchers and rebuilding kits.
As we head into the rainy winter season, and the increased risk of floods and fires, this non-delivery by SASSA places the lives of the poorest and most vulnerable segments of society at a major risk.
The MEC will write to the National Minister this week, to request a meeting and get clarity on what steps will be taken to address this non-delivery by SASSA.
Media Enquiries:
Sihle Ngobese
Tel: 021 483 9217
Cell: 076 083 6543
E-mail: Sihle.Ngobese@westerncape.gov.za
