Zuko Komisa
- SASSA has sacked 43 internal officials over systemic fraud and theft, with a further 65 disciplinary cases currently pending.
- Dismissed staff members are facing criminal prosecution as part of a joint crackdown between the agency and law enforcement.
- The Department of Social Development is introducing tighter financial controls alongside a digital overhaul, including self-service kiosks and enhanced cybersecurity.
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has dismissed 43 officials implicated in fraud, theft, and corruption.
The sackings, confirmed during a parliamentary briefing on Wednesday, are part of an aggressive internal sweep to root out misconduct within the country’s embattled social welfare system.
Speaking before parliament’s Standing Committee on Appropriations, SASSA CEO Themba Matlou revealed the dismissals took place during the 2025/2026 financial year.
Matlou confirmed that the sacked workers are also facing criminal prosecution, with several cases already in court. Another 65 disciplinary cases remain pending, which could lead to further dismissals.
The systemic purge is being driven by the agency’s Fraud Management and Compliance Department alongside law enforcement.
Acting Minister of Social Development Sindisiwe Chikunga pledged tighter procurement oversight, stricter internal audits, and regular compliance checks to safeguard public funds meant for South Africa’s most vulnerable citizens.
To permanently curb future manipulation, SASSA is rolling out a major digital modernization programme. As the agency marks its 20th anniversary, plans are underway to introduce online grant applications, self-service kiosks, a dedicated mobile app with offline capabilities, and significantly upgraded cybersecurity infrastructure.
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