Research commissioned by the Department of Social Development (DSD) found that recipients of the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant are more likely to seek out employment opportunities. It suggested that receiving social assistance does not discourage job seekers from seeking employment opportunities.
The Covid-19 SRD continues to be a lifeline for thousands in South Africa
The SRD grant is currently being paid to around seven million people monthly. Many of these beneficiaries use the money they receive to purchase essentials such as food and electricity.
The South African Social Security has praised individuals who are using their grants to improve their lives and those around them. Some grant recipients have also used their grant money to pursue entrepreneurial ventures.
Jabulile from Randburg bought supplies allowing them to start a nail studio in their parent's backyard with money they received from their grant payments.
Self-taught nail tech Jabulile learned her skills from videos on social media platforms including Youtube, Instagram and Tik Tok. These skills enabled them to earn more money per day than what the grant is worth.
Jabulile encouraged grant recipients who can save a portion of their grant to do so and invest in something they are passionate about.
I would say find something that you like because that is something that's going to drive you to do that and… find something that people are not used to an idea, it's going to benefit you even for a long term and then like it worked for me and you can even work
President Cyril Ramaphosa previously praised individuals who used their grants to start businesses.
During his 2022 State Of the Nation Address, the president praised Thando Makhubu who saved their grant money and opened an ice cream store. Lindokuhle Msomi from KwaMashu Hostel, saved their grant to start a fast food stall and to support their family.
As it stands, the implementation of the SRD will conclude in March 2024. However, the DSD is investigating the possibility of making the grant permanent or introducing a Basic Income Grant.
