SASSA’s Biometric Rollout Enrols 42,000 Clients in Just Over Two Weeks

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has enrolled more than 42,000 clients at 432 local offices nationwide since the launch of its Beneficiary Biometric Enrolment (BBE) rollout earlier this month. This milestone, achieved in just over two weeks, underscores the agency’s drive to strengthen the integrity of the social grant system and curb fraud.

Briefing Parliament on Progress

SASSA CEO Themba Matlou, together with Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe, presented the progress update to the Portfolio Committee on Social Development on Wednesday. Matlou confirmed that the enrolments include new applicants, beneficiaries undergoing mandatory reviews, and individuals updating personal details at SASSA offices.

He praised the early success of the programme, noting that despite initial teething problems, the agency had prepared adequately with proactive monitoring, staff training, and system adjustments. “Challenges will always come when you implement a new system, but we are on top of our game. We are doing proactive monitoring and analysis to ensure optimal implementation that will stand the test of time,” Matlou said.

Addressing Challenges and Building Capacity

The CEO acknowledged that the rollout did not come without difficulties. However, daily system monitoring, combined with additional training for frontline officials, has enhanced efficiency and instilled greater confidence among staff. This has ensured that potential disruptions for beneficiaries have been minimised.

Matlou emphasised that SASSA had capacitated all local offices to handle the high demand and introduced contingency measures to prevent unnecessary delays. “As we introduce these new systems, we do so with our clients in mind so that we do not inconvenience them in any way,” he stressed.

Why Biometric Enrolment Matters

The BBE system represents a strategic move by SASSA to tackle persistent challenges in grant administration. For years, fraudulent applications and manipulation of the system—especially through forged identity documents—have placed strain on public funds and undermined confidence in the programme.

By capturing biometric data, SASSA is aiming to ensure that every grant recipient is verifiably authentic. This strengthens resilience against fraud and errors, while enhancing transparency in the management of billions in social grants.

Key Benefits of the BBE Rollout

The biometric enrolment system promises multiple benefits for both the agency and its clients:

• Curbing fraud and duplicate payments: Ensures only legitimate beneficiaries receive grants.

• Proof of life verification: Prevents misuse of grants by confirming the living status of recipients.

• Reduced errors: Minimises incorrect inclusions or administrative mistakes.

• Streamlined documentation: Simplifies record-keeping and improves efficiency.

• Improved audits: Enhances accountability and compliance with financial regulations.

• Public confidence: Restores and strengthens trust in the social assistance programme.

Looking Ahead

The rollout is still in its early phase, but SASSA is confident that the programme will significantly improve grant administration in the long term. Continuous training of officials and ongoing technical monitoring are expected to further smoothen the system’s operation.

With over 42,000 clients already enrolled in just two weeks, SASSA anticipates even faster progress as the system stabilises and officials become more adept at using it.

For grant enquiries, beneficiaries are encouraged to visit www.sassa.gov.za, call the toll-free line at 0800 60 1011, or email GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za.