Ramaphosa says money spent on social grants not wasted: ‘They make a real difference’
The president said social security is one of government’s biggest achievements and is also the biggest spending priority in the budget.
President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) in Parliament, Cape Town on 28 November 2024. Picture: Phando Jikelo/Parliament
CAPE TOWN - President Cyril Ramaphosa said the money the government spends on social grants is not going to waste.
He said social security is one of the government’s biggest achievements and is also the biggest spending priority in the budget.
Ramaphosa was making his annual address to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) on Thursday, addressing several issues like social grants and the economy.
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The president made his last appearance in Parliament before the term and the year end.
He used the opportunity to remind NCOP members of the importance of the social wage.
The budget for social grants this financial year stands at R275 billion and assists 28 million beneficiaries.
“The funds we spend on social support and protection are not funds we can say are wasted. They make a real difference in people’s lives and improve their prospects for a better future.”
But others, like Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane, called for universal healthcare and urged Ramaphosa to implement the National Health Insurance (NHI).
“We are calling for the full implementation of the BELA [Basic Education Laws Amendment] Act and NHI as these policies will contribute to reducing the cost of living for the majority of citizens.”
Ramaphosa said while there are differences in the Government of National Unity (GNU), all ten parties are committed to growing the economy.