The Covid-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to people around the world, and South Africa is no exception. Millions of South Africans have been struggling to make ends meet due to the economic effects of the pandemic. However, for those eligible for the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, this has been a lifeline. The good news is that the R350 grant has been extended for a further year, providing relief to eligible recipients.

• During Wednesday’s first Medium Term Budget Policy Statement in Parliament, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced that the R350 grant would be extended until the end of March 2024. This decision was made despite ongoing discussions about how to replace the award, and the government is considering alternative options.
• This extension of the SRD grant will have implications for other social benefits such as old-age and disability payments, which will increase at a slower rate than inflation. According to Treasury, the SRD grant will rise by at least 8.8% annually, potentially costing R64.9 billion in the fiscal year 2030–31, which may put public funds at risk.
• Godongwana stressed that the indefinite continuation of the grant would significantly affect the state’s financial stability. He said, “I want to underscore that any permanent extension or replacement will need permanent increases in revenue, permanent reductions in spending elsewhere, or a mix of the two.”
• While the extension of the SRD grant is undoubtedly good news for eligible recipients, it highlights the challenges that South Africa faces in providing social support to those in need. The government will need to balance the need for continued support with the financial pressures that come with providing this support over an extended period.