🚨 Bolo TV News Network • June 20, 2026
BYE-BYE SRD? Government Fast-Tracks New Basic Income Support Grant to Link Recipients with Jobs
BY AFRIKABELO NEWS | #SASSA #SRDGRANT #BASICINCOME #DEPTOFSOCIALDEVELOPMENT #LOCALPOLICY
PRETORIA – Millions of South Africans who currently rely on the monthly R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant could soon transition into a newly structured social assistance framework.
The Department of Social Development is officially drafting a permanent Basic Income Support grant intended to completely take the place of the temporary SRD relief measure. Backed heavily by President Cyril Ramaphosa following his 2026 State of the Nation Address promise, the policy is aimed at wrapping up by March 2027 to allow legislative adjustments to take hold in the 2027/28 financial year.
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From Pandemic Stop-Gap to Structural Pathway
Originally introduced in 2020 as a short-term pandemic emergency buffer meant to last only six months, the SRD grant has continuously evolved. Today, it supports over 8 million vulnerable South Africans and costs an estimated R36.4 billion in the current national budget cycle.
While data confirms the R370 payments heavily assisted households in securing food, basic electricity, and clothing, the state highlights that long-term reliance without economic mobility is unsustainable. The incoming Basic Income Support policy aims to systematically link cash grant recipients to concrete employment, internships, and livelihood pathways.
Key Project Timelines
The department has outlined clear, immediate markers before the public review process begins:
- July 2026: Final budget impact consultations with the National Treasury.
- August 2026: Submission to Cabinet to unlock open public commentary.
- March 2027: Final sign-off on the policy framework before altering the Social Assistance Act.
The government stresses that the current SRD layout remains secure and legally protected until its current legislative extension wraps up on 31 March 2027.
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