Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana Has Increased SRD Grant to R370
As the general elections are on the head, the current government is trying to make their vote bank with great efforts. One such effort is to continue the SRD grant until 2025 and increase it to R370.
Social Relief of Distress (SRD) R350 grant will increase to R370 from 1st April 2024. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana gave this statement during the Consideration of the 2024 Fiscal Framework and Revenue Proposals event.
On March 13, 2024, the Finance Minister declared that we would raise the SRD grant to 5.7% during a live YouTube telecast. There will be a 20 Rand increase from April 2024.
Will SRD Grant Increasement Help the Government to Win 2024 Elections?
On 29 May 2024, South Africa is going to conduct the general elections of 2024. The current government is very passionate about the winning of this election.
Due to the launch of the SRD COVID-19 grant, the government has already won votes. However, some people criticise this grant due to the small amount of the grant. The R350 amount is not sufficient for a family or person to pay for expenses.
The government has taken the step and now the grant payment will change from R350 to R370. However, this is not a very big amount yet it is helpful for the majority of deserving South African citizens.
Reactions on SRD Grant Incrase to R370
The reaction of people to the increase of SRD grants is mixed. Some people appreciate the government while others are criticizing them.
Here are some of the reviews and reactions from the people of South Africa:
“Finally, a much-needed increase! This extra R20 might seem small to some, but for many struggling families, it can make a significant difference in putting food on the table. Thank you, government!”
“It’s heartening to see the government taking steps to support those in need. Even though R370 may not cover all expenses, every little bit helps. This increase shows they’re listening and responding to the challenges faced by ordinary South Africans.”
“This increase in the SRD grant is a step in the right direction. With the cost of living constantly rising, every additional Rand counts. It shows that the government is committed to providing ongoing support to vulnerable communities.”
“While any increase is appreciated, R370 is still far from sufficient to meet basic needs. It feels like a token gesture rather than a meaningful solution to address poverty. The government needs to do more to truly uplift those in need.”
“Disappointing. With inflation soaring and the cost of essentials skyrocketing, R20 extra hardly scratches the surface of what’s needed to survive. It’s like putting a band-aid on a gaping wound – inadequate and short-sighted.”
Importance of Social Relief of Distress Grant in 2024
Although COVID-19 is gone people who were affected by the storm are still struggling. The government tried to shut down the grant numerous times but the demand from the people urged the government to keep it alive.
In 2024, it was considered that the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant would end on 31 March 2024. However, the government reversed its decision and now the expiry date extended to 31 March 2025.
This extension makes millions of people happy and provides additional hope for the next whole year.
Those who were disappointed when they heard about the first news are now happy to know that they can get SRD grant for one more year.
Also, the amount of the grant is going to be raised in April 2024. This has a good effect on people.