MINISTER ZULU TO MEET WITH SANTACO AHEAD OF CHILD PROTECTION WEEK

• Minister Lindiwe Zulu conducted an oversight visit to the SASSA Local Office in Umnini, KwaZulu-Natal, demonstrating her commitment to child protection. Operating from the Umnini Thusong Centre, this office serves over 26,730 social grant beneficiaries from various communities, with a monthly disbursement exceeding R37 million rand.
• During her visit, Minister Zulu assessed the effectiveness of the One-Day Turn-Around Grant Application Business Model at the SASSA Local Office, aiming to streamline grant application processes and provide same-day feedback to applicants.
• Additionally, Minister Zulu engaged with social grant applicants and beneficiaries during her visit, receiving positive feedback on the quality of service provided by the SASSA Local Office. Furthermore, she announced plans to host an Integrated Community Registration Outreach Programme with traditional leaders to address concerns regarding alternative SASSA cash pay points.

As part of her commitment to child protection, Minister Lindiwe Zulu conducted an oversight visit to the SASSA Local Office in Umnini, KwaZulu-Natal. Operating from the Umnini Thusong Centre, this crucial office serves numerous communities, including Umgababa, Magabeni, Mfume, Mashiwase, Illovu, Amanzimtoti, and Inkwali, catering to the needs of 26,730 social grant beneficiaries, with a monthly disbursement exceeding R37 million rand.

Minister Zulu evaluated the effectiveness of the One-Day Turn-Around Grant Application Business Model implemented at the SASSA Local Office. This model aims to expedite the processing of grant applications, ensuring that applicants receive feedback on the same day.

During her visit, Minister Zulu engaged with both applicants and beneficiaries of social grants, who expressed satisfaction with the quality of service provided by the SASSA Local Office.

Minister Zulu will host an Integrated Community Registration Outreach Programme with traditional leaders. This initiative aims to inform them about alternative SASSA cash pay points following the closure of existing ones. Traditional leaders have sought an audience with the Minister to address concerns related to this transition.

In line with the upcoming Child Protection Month, launching on May 19 under the theme “Protecting South Africa’s Children: 30 Years On,” Minister Zulu will collaborate with leaders of the South African National Taxi Council and learner transport operators in KwaZulu-Natal to conclude her outreach programme. This engagement aims to encourage their active involvement in child protection initiatives, given their frequent interactions with children.

The pinnacle of the Ministerial Outreach Programme will be the official inauguration of the new SASSA office at Bridge City, KwaMashu.