WC Social Development MEC vows to keep watchful eye on SASSA
Jaco Londt met with SASSA's provincial management on Tuesday, to talk about challenges and solutions in order to ensure efficient services for the vulnerable in the province.
A parked SASSA vehicle. Picture: Barbara Maregele/GroundUp
CAPE TOWN - The Western Cape's Social Development MEC, Jaco Londt, is keeping a close eye on the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and the service it delivers.
He met with SASSA's provincial management on Tuesday.
Their discussions revolved around the relationship between the agency and the provincial Department of Social Development (DSD), challenges experienced by SASSA, solutions and the way forward.
Londt said SASSA is a national function and does not fall under the province's mandate, but by working with the agency, the province's most vulnerable residents can be supported.
"Whenever we receive complaints or queries from members of the public related to SASSA, we escalate these to the necessary SASSA officials to ensure that citizens receive help. I am encouraged that SASSA's provincial management shares our goal to improve the working relationship it has with DSD."
Londt said he also plans to possibly conduct oversight visits at SASSA offices, to monitor services.
"SASSA disburses over 1.6 million grants in the Western Cape. Many of the beneficiaries are vulnerable residents who also seek services from DSD. We will hold SASSA accountable for delivering effective services to beneficiaries and protecting their dignity."