No More Long Queues SASSA officially Confirmed NEW Law: Minister of Social Development, Nokuzola Sisisi Tolashe, has committed to mobilizing resources and working with government departments to reduce long queues and improve turnaround times at South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) offices nationwide.
No More Long Queues SASSA officially Confirmed NEW Law
During her week-long oversight visits to SASSA offices in the Western Cape, which concluded on 13 January 2025, Tolashe witnessed firsthand the struggles of grant applicants waiting in scorching heat for assistance.
Government to Implement Immediate Interventions
Tolashe acknowledged the challenges faced by citizens and vowed to engage with other ministers to develop urgent intervention strategies to:
- Reduce waiting times at SASSA offices.
- Improve service accessibility by securing more service points.
- Increase the number of SASSA employees to serve the growing demand.
“Social services and the provision of grants remain a critical element in fighting hunger. I need to engage with sister departments and cabinet colleagues to address what we have seen in these areas because it is unacceptable,” Tolashe stated.
More Buildings and Staff Needed for Better Service Delivery
To improve SASSA service delivery, Tolashe emphasized the urgent need for:
- More buildings – The Department of Public Works must ensure adequate SASSA offices are available for easier access.
- More staff – National Treasury and Public Service & Administration must fund additional employees to handle the high demand.
Commitment to Quality Service & Batho Pele Principles
Tolashe reassured the public that her department is committed to:
- Providing high-quality services.
- Ensuring respect and dignity for grant applicants.
- Upholding the Batho Pele and Ubuntu principles in public service.
She acknowledged the frustration of those affected by long queues and delays, promising real solutions to the problem.
“We will not rest until every citizen receives the service they deserve with dignity and efficiency.”
Minister Tolashe’s intervention could bring significant improvements to SASSA’s service delivery, addressing long queues, understaffing, and accessibility issues. With support from sister departments, SASSA aims to provide faster, more efficient social services to vulnerable communities.
FAQ’s
What actions is Minister Tolashe taking to improve SASSA services?
She is engaging with other ministers to provide more buildings, increase staff, and reduce long queues at SASSA offices.
Why are there long queues at SASSA offices?
High demand, limited service points, and staff shortages contribute to long waiting times for grant applicants.
How will the Department of Public Works help improve SASSA services?
They will ensure that more buildings are made available for SASSA offices to improve service accessibility.
What is the role of National Treasury in improving SASSA services?
National Treasury will need to allocate funds for hiring more staff to reduce waiting times.
What principles guide SASSA’s service delivery?
SASSA follows Batho Pele and Ubuntu principles, ensuring dignified and respectful service for all citizens.
