Pensioners are joining a picket outside Sassa offices to highlight their financial struggles and demand that their pensions be increased to R5 000. 

The picket, organised by Pensioners of South Africa (Posa), is expected to take place tomorrow (September 7) between 12:00 and 14:00. 

Among those joining the cause is Brian Alcock from Cape Town. 

“It is difficult to survive on R2 400,” he explains.

The Older Persons Grant must cover electricity, water, accommodation, transport, food and medicine. But, he says, after ‘we buy food, there is not much money left’. 

Human rights violation 

He adds that pensioners’ human rights are being violated because social security is a need, especially for the elderly. 

“A lot of us have been working for most of our lives,” says Alcock. 

“We helped build this country. We have worked and slaved for this country. They are giving us nothing back in return. We are saying enough is enough.” 

Selwyn Anderson from Durban says that with the increased cost of living and utility tariffs, the elderly are forced to seek help from their children. 

Forgotten community 

“We feel like a forgotten community who is only remembered during elections,” says Anderson. “Pensioners having to picket to get government’s attention is a bad reflection on the country’s leadership.” 

Sany van Zyl from Gauteng agrees the grant is not enough. 

“To buy a loaf of bread and milk alone costs about R40,” says Van Zyl.  

“These are basic food items, and if you add electricity, rent and additional groceries, it is not enough. We need the grant to be reviewed so we can live with dignity.” 

“We have contributed to the development and growth of this country, and now we are forgotten.” 

Peaceful demonstration of unity 

In a statement, the organisation said the picket will be a peaceful, dignified show of unity by older persons who wish to make their presence visible and affirm their place in democracy. 

“Posa is deeply concerned about the financial pressure facing older persons in South Africa as the cost of living continues to rise.”  

The organisation explained that it is calling for the grant to be increased to R5 000 per month as it believes this would provide a more dignified and liveable level of support for older persons. 

 The organisation also emphasised the contribution older persons have made to South African society over decades, including building communities, raising families, contributing to the economy and helping shape the country. 

It said older persons should not have to choose which basic needs they can afford in their later years. 

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