DEPUTY MINISTER GANIEF HENDRICKS TO ADDRESS SUSTAINABLE LIVELIHOODS ROUNDTABLE IN CAPE TOWN

By Staff Reporter

South Africa’s social protection programmes have significantly alleviated poverty among vulnerable populations, with social assistance—particularly social grants—forming the backbone of these efforts.

Over the past three decades, social grant coverage has expanded greatly, now reaching over 18 million children, women, persons with disabilities, and older persons. Additionally, more than 8.5 million unemployed adults aged 18-59 receive monthly income support through the Social Relief of Distress programme, providing essential stability for those on the lower end of the income scale.

As part of implementing its Framework on Linking Social Protection Beneficiaries to Sustainable Livelihoods Opportunities, the Department of Social Development, in partnership with the National Development Agency (NDA), South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), FinMark Trust, and BRAC International, launched the Generating Better Livelihoods for Grant Recipients pilot project. This three-year initiative, running across seven sites in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, and Free State, aims to connect social grant recipients—particularly those receiving child support grants—to sustainable livelihood opportunities, such as skills training and employment.

With the pilot phase nearing completion, the Department, FinMark Trust, and BRAC International will hold a roundtable discussion to share insights and lessons from the project, with plans to expand the initiative. Deputy Minister of Social Development, Mr Ganief Hendricks, will deliver the keynote address, alongside senior officials from partner organisations involved in the pilot.