Pretoria, South Africa – Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe has announced the filling of critical leadership vacancies in her department, a move she says will enhance service delivery, particularly for the country’s most vulnerable citizens.
Speaking at a National Press Club briefing in Pretoria, Tolashe confirmed the appointment of a new Director-General (DG) for the Department of Social Development, a Deputy Director for Welfare Services, a Chief Financial Officer, and a permanent CEO for the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA).
Stabilizing Leadership to Improve Services
Tolashe emphasized that these appointments would address previous challenges caused by vacancies, enabling the department to better fulfill its mandate.
“We have processed and concluded the appointment of the Director-General, the Deputy Director for Welfare Services, and the CFO. Just a week ago, Cabinet also appointed a permanent SASSA CEO,” she said.
The new DG acknowledged the immense task ahead, stating, “The task in front of us is massive. I have a responsibility to ensure the department moves to the highest level and becomes the best in South Africa. We have already displayed pockets of excellence and are well-grounded due to our political leadership.”
Progress on Social Grant Migrations and Fraud Prevention
The newly appointed SASSA CEO provided updates on the migration of beneficiaries from the old SASSA gold cards to the new gold/black cards, confirming that nearly 2 million beneficiaries have already switched. However, around 700,000 still need to complete the process.
“There is no cutoff date—the old cards will still work while we encourage beneficiaries to migrate,” he assured. He also pledged to strengthen anti-fraud measures within SASSA.
Extension of Social Relief of Distress Grant
Tolashe confirmed that the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant—a critical support mechanism for the working-age unemployed—would continue beyond its initial expiry date. The Minister of Finance has approved its extension while long-term poverty alleviation solutions are finalized. Draft regulations for the grant’s continuation will be published by 26 March 2025.
Call to Action on Gender-Based Violence
The minister also expressed deep concern over recent gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) cases, urging law enforcement to ensure perpetrators face justice.
“We call on authorities to do all they can to bring offenders to book and deliver justice for victims and their families,” she said.
With these key appointments and policy updates, the Department of Social Development aims to strengthen its ability to serve South Africa’s most vulnerable populations effectively.
