People living with disability, the orphaned and underprivileged individuals have urged the government to increase their monthly social grants from M750 to M1000 or, at the very least, ensure that all recipients receive M750 per month.

One of the beneficiaries highlighted the challenges they face as guardians of children with disabilities and orphans stating that, the current subsidy is insufficient to cover essential needs such as school fees and food due to rising costs.

Mrs. Mmamaliehe Mopasi from Maqhaka, a social grant recipient said, people with disabilities incur additional expenses, including frequent medical checkups and the high cost of hiring special transport to collect their grants. She expressed the need for digital payments, similar to other social grant programs, to reduce transportation costs.

Similarly, Ms. Relebohile Moea from Ha Seoli Maseru, acknowledged the efforts of the Ministry of Social Development in providing the grants. However, she noted that, while the assistance is better than nothing, the amount remains insufficient to meet their basic needs.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Social Development has announced plans to transition from cash payments to digital platforms, with M1.5 million allocated for this initiative this financial year.

13th March 2025