IN CONVERSATION WITH LUNGELO MKHAMBA

The South African Social Security Agency is intensifying its efforts to
combat fraud and corruption within the social grants system by taking
action against officials who abuse internal processes.
SASSA Chief Executive Officer, Mr Themba Matlou, has warned that
officials found to have bypassed the agency’s biometric system to
process, verify or approve fraudulent grant applications will face
disciplinary action, including criminal charges and dismissal.
The agency says it has introduced stricter controls, including
Beneficiary Biometric Enrolment, to prevent identity theft and ensure
that social grants reach only legitimate and deserving beneficiaries.
SASSA is also pursuing legal measures to recover financial losses
caused by fraudulent transactions, including applying for Preservation
Orders against the pension funds of officials involved in corrupt
activities.
Matlou says SASSA is also focusing on internal accountability,
acknowledging that some officials have contributed to fraud by
manipulating processes. The agency has already dismissed
approximately 43 officials in recent financial years for various
transgressions, including corruption-related offences.
As SASSA marks 20 years since its establishment in 2006, the
agency says it will continue strengthening its systems to protect public
funds, improve grant administration and ensure that social assistance
reaches those who need it most.