Johannesburg - The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is rolling out its biometric system across all provinces starting today, September 1, 2025. This new system will require all new grant applicants to enroll their biometric data, including fingerprints or facial recognition, as part of the application process.
Why Biometrics? Curbing Fraud and Speeding Up Processes
SASSA aims to combat fraud and improve the efficiency of grant administration with this initiative. According to SASSA spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi, the agency is “ramping up its efforts to improve its systems, detect and effectively root out any fraudulent elements in the social grant administration.” The biometric system will help ensure that grant applicants are genuine and reduce errors in the system.
Initially, the biometric system was only used for Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant applicants and beneficiaries undergoing grant reviews. Now, it's being extended to all new applications and beneficiaries who need to update their personal details. This means anyone applying for a SASSA grant or updating their information will need to provide their biometric data at a SASSA office.
What You Need to Know
- Mandatory Biometrics: All new grant applications and personal detail updates require biometric enrollment.
- Fingerprints or Facial Recognition: You will need to provide fingerprints or undergo facial recognition at a SASSA office.
- Fraud Prevention: The system is designed to detect and prevent fraudulent activities in the SASSA grant system.
- Faster Processing: SASSA believes the system will also help speed up grant processing times.
SASSA has equipped all its offices with the necessary infrastructure to handle biometric enrolment. This move is a significant step towards securing the social grant system and ensuring that those who need assistance receive it efficiently.
Potential Challenges and Concerns
While the biometric system aims to improve grant administration, some concerns have been raised about potential delays and access for beneficiaries in remote areas. SASSA has promised to extend operating hours and employ more staff to address these concerns. It's crucial for SASSA to ensure that the implementation of the biometric system does not disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.