The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) will introduce mandatory beneficiary biometric enrolment at all its offices across the country from September 1.

According to the South African Government News Agency, the move is expected to transform the administration of social grants by reducing fraud and improving efficiency.

SASSA explained that biometric enrolment will serve as a critical safeguard against fraudulent activities in the grant system.

The system will use fingerprint or facial recognition through electronic Know Your Client (eKYC) technology to verify the identity of recipients.

SASSA CEO Themba Matlou confirmed that the agency is ready for implementation after concluding engagements with organised labour.

“We planned to commence biometric enrolment at the beginning of the 2025/26 financial year; however, we hit a snag.

“We have since ironed out the issues that delayed our plans, and it is all systems go for the implementation,” Matlou said.

The new enrolment process will ensure:

• A reduction in fraudulent applications and duplicate payments
• Reliable verification of beneficiary authenticity and proof of life
• Fewer inclusion errors
• Streamlined documentation processes
• Stronger audit outcomes and record integrity
• Improved public trust in the social grants system

Applications submitted without biometric data will be flagged for review, with beneficiaries notified to complete their biometric capture.

SASSA has already set up the necessary infrastructure nationwide, with frontline staff undergoing training throughout August to ensure a smooth roll-out.

The agency stressed its commitment to paying the right grant to the right person and warned that officials found colluding in fraudulent activities will face disciplinary action.

Beneficiaries seeking more information are encouraged to visit www.sassa.gov.za or contact the toll-free number 0800 60 1011.

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