The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) will introduce mandatory biometric enrolment for all new grant applications from 1 September in an effort to clamp down on fraud and strengthen the integrity of its systems.
The move comes as the agency continues its social grants review process, aimed at ensuring that assistance reaches only eligible beneficiaries while eliminating fraudulent claims.
According to SASSA, the biometric system will mark a major shift in how grants are administered, serving as an early detection tool against irregularities in the application process.
SASSA chief executive officer Themba Matlou confirmed that the project will officially launch in the 2025/2026 financial year after initial delays. He described the rollout as a significant step toward modernising the agency’s operations.
Spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi explained that the biometric enrolment will make it easier to verify the authenticity of applicants and prevent fraudulent activities, particularly in cases where fake identification documents are used.
The system will also support proof-of-life verification, streamline documentation processes, reduce inclusion errors and strengthen audit outcomes.
From September, all new applications will require either fingerprint enrolment or facial recognition through the agency’s electronic Know Your Client (eKYC) system.
Any applications submitted without biometric data will automatically be flagged for review, and applicants will be required to complete the enrolment before their grants can be processed.
SASSA said the initiative is designed to restore public confidence in the social grants system by creating a more secure, transparent and accountable process that protects resources for genuine beneficiaries.
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