Sassa brings services closer to recipients

Umuziwabantu Municipality recently launched the Integrated Community Registration Outreach Programme (ICROP) to assist Bashaweni residents in Harding who travel 25km for essential social welfare support.

The programme by the South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) was aimed at improving access to government services for underserved communities.

KZN Social Development MEC Mbali Shinga said accessibility to services is a right for every citizen.

Shinga said through ICROP, they ensure that no one is left behind.

She said the programme features partnerships with local municipalities, civil society organisations, and businesses to bridge the gap between government services and communities.

“We are committed to reaching socially excluded areas, ensuring our services are available, affordable and adequate. A key aspect of ICROP is child support grant registration sites at local hospitals, including Port Shepstone Regional Hospital, due to its collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs. By placing registration sites where they are most needed, we better support vulnerable children and families,” she said.

The MEC said the event shed light on the Generating Better Livelihoods (GBL) project, as it aimed to uplift households through tailored interventions.

Shinga said their partnerships will address food security and provide job training opportunities.

“The GBL project has already conducted 48 household profiles and developed 39 individual intervention plans, engaging local leaders to support agricultural initiatives. This is about empowering our communities to create sustainable livelihoods. Together, we can build a brighter future,” she said.

Meanwhile, pensioner Zandile Memela (75) said she was grateful for the initiative.

“This programme means everything to us. It brings hope and helps us feel connected to our government. I am grateful that help is coming closer to our homes.”

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