The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has confirmed that its August grant payment cycle proceeded smoothly in the North West province, with CEO Mr Themba Matlou expressing satisfaction following a three-day working visit across local offices.
Matlou, joined by SASSA executives, visited Zeerust and Mahikeng between 5 and 7 August 2025 to oversee operations, monitor service delivery, and address any bottlenecks affecting the social grant review process. His inspection included local offices and retail merchants such as Boxer and Shoprite, which serve as key grant payout points.
“I did not pick up any serious issues and our beneficiaries received their grants without hindrance. Our staff has been on top of their game,” said Matlou. “We are satisfied with what we found and seem to have overcome the teething problems of recent months.”
SASSA confirmed that out of 1,200 flagged beneficiaries in Mahikeng, 700 reported to local offices for reviews. Notably, 69 individuals were identified as ineligible, with many found to be employed and no longer qualifying for social grants.
“This is a significant number that has burdened our system, and we are pleased with the progress in identifying such cases,” Matlou said, crediting improved systems and staff dedication for the breakthroughs.
Matlou emphasized that SASSA systems are stabilizing, and those who did not receive grants were assisted swiftly. He also reiterated SASSA’s commitment to preventing fraud and ensuring grants are paid to those who truly qualify.
The agency deployed additional executives across the country to assist in monitoring local office performance and enhance service delivery during the critical August review cycle.
“We urge beneficiaries to remain calm as we root out fraud and ensure the rightful recipients are paid. This is about protecting the public purse from manipulation,” Matlou concluded.
