The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) continues to strengthen its service delivery systems while intensifying efforts to fight fraud and corruption within the organisation.
As part of its digital transformation programme, SASSA has introduced several improvements aimed at making social grant services more accessible and efficient for beneficiaries. These include:
- Online grant applications and the deployment of self-service kiosks at offices; and
- Wi-Fi and network upgrades, including local office Wi-Fi hotspots.
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In addition, SASSA informed Parliament that more digital initiatives are planned for the current financial year to improve nationwide service delivery. These include:
- A new mobile application for beneficiaries
- Offline capability systems
- A single user interface for services
- Enhanced cybersecurity measures
- Threat intelligence systems
The agency believes these technological upgrades will modernise grant administration while improving security and accessibility for millions of beneficiaries across South Africa.
SASSA Fires 43 Officials Over Fraud and Corruption
At the same time, SASSA has taken strong disciplinary action against corruption within the institution. The agency confirmed that 43 officials were dismissed during the 2025/2026 financial year following disciplinary hearings linked to fraud, corruption, theft, and maladministration.
The announcement was made during a presentation by the Department of Social Development, SASSA, and the National Development Agency before Parliament’s Standing Committee on Appropriations on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.
According to SASSA CEO Mr Themba Matlou, the dismissals form part of the agency’s intensified efforts to protect the integrity of South Africa’s social grant system and improve governance.
“This is a resounding success for us as an Agency as we continue to root out bad apples that are tainting our social grants system and bringing the good name of SASSA into disrepute through their misconduct,” Matlou said.
Matlou further revealed that some dismissed officials are currently under investigation by law enforcement agencies, while others have already appeared in court, with their cases at different stages of prosecution.
He credited the progress to SASSA’s Fraud Management and Compliance Department, which was established to implement anti-fraud and anti-corruption systems and investigate misconduct within the organisation.
“We are doing our best to further strengthen the implementation of our Fraud Prevention Strategy to restore and enhance the integrity of our social grant system,” he stressed.
However, SASSA indicated that 65 disciplinary cases remain outstanding and are expected to be finalised by the agency’s Labour Relations Unit, meaning additional disciplinary action may follow in the coming months.
Government Tightens Financial Oversight
Meanwhile, Acting Minister of Social Development Ms Sindisiwe Chikunga reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening accountability and financial discipline within entities under the department.
Measures being strengthened include:
- Improved internal controls and procurement oversight
- Regular expenditure monitoring and compliance checks
- Enhanced audit and reporting systems
- Stronger consequence management processes
- Ongoing fraud awareness and ethics interventions
The department said these measures are intended to improve governance and safeguard public funds.
As SASSA celebrates its 20th anniversary since its establishment in 2006, CEO Matlou, supported by executives, management, and frontline staff, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to improving services to meet the needs and expectations of the clients it serves, while restoring public trust in South Africa’s social assistance system.
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