Old Age Grant Not Ending — SASSA Debunks Viral Misinformation
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has reassured millions of elderly citizens that the Old Age Grant will not be discontinued despite the circulation of false information online. In a time when many South Africans rely heavily on social assistance, SASSA has moved quickly to dispel the panic caused by fake news.
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The Source of the Panic
The panic stemmed from a widely circulated message that first appeared on the Amritavidyalayam website, warning that elderly beneficiaries could lose their grants unless they resubmitted or updated documents by the end of April. The post claimed:
“As we step into a new financial year, thousands of elderly South Africans relying on the Sassa old age grant may face an unexpected disruption.”
This message quickly went viral across social media platforms, leaving many vulnerable South Africans anxious and confused.
SASSA’s Firm Rebuttal
SASSA has since categorically denied the claims, labelling the message as “incorrect and fake.” According to Paseka Letsatsi, SASSA’s national spokesperson:
“This message is mischievous, and we urge our beneficiaries not to panic as no grant will be cancelled. SASSA only reviews grants that need to be reviewed at a particular time, and that is communicated to the beneficiaries whose grant is to be reviewed before any action is taken.”
Letsatsi emphasized that no mass cancellation or requirement to update documents currently exists, and any necessary reviews are handled on an individual basis with proper prior communication.
Who Qualifies for the SASSA Old Age Grant?
The Old Age Grant is a lifeline for many South Africans. It is granted to:
- Legal South African citizens, permanent residents, and refugees,
- Individuals 60 years or older, and
- Those without any other income or with income below a certain threshold.
This grant is one of the key pillars of social welfare in South Africa, ensuring that senior citizens can live with dignity and security in their retirement years.
Over 19 Million Rely on SASSA Social Grants
South Africa currently provides social grants to over 19 million beneficiaries, including the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities. Given the scale of the program, any misinformation can have a massive impact, causing distress not only to individuals but to families and communities who depend on this support.
The Danger of Fake News
SASSA has warned the public about the real dangers of spreading false information, especially when it concerns social services. The agency stated:
“We appeal to all South Africans to stop these acts, and our beneficiaries to be vigilant and cautious about the information they consume.”
The rise of social media has made it easier for rumours and hoaxes to gain traction. SASSA urges citizens to avoid sharing unverified messages, especially those that could cause anxiety and harm to vulnerable populations.
How to Stay Informed
To avoid confusion, SASSA encourages beneficiaries and the public to follow official communication channels:
- SASSA’s verified social media pages (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram)
- The official SASSA website
- Public statements from trusted government officials and departments
If you ever receive a message that seems alarming or suspicious, it’s always best to double-check with SASSA directly before sharing it further.
A Call for Responsible Sharing
The Old Age Grant is not being discontinued, and there is no blanket requirement for document updates by April 30. SASSA has confirmed this is fake news designed to mislead and panic the public. The agency remains committed to supporting South Africa’s elderly citizens and has promised to continue providing accurate and timely information.
Let’s all do our part in protecting those who are most vulnerable by sharing responsibly, verifying sources, and staying informed through credible platforms.
