The Poverty Alleviation Impetus of the Social Security System in South Africa

Abstract

South Africa has a well-defined system of social security, which in terms of
expenditure can be described as the largest anti-poverty instrument in the post-apartheid years. These grants are administered by the Department of Social Development (DoSD) and serve as an important means of poverty alleviation in a country where poverty and unemployment are widespread, and where the rapid increase in HIV/AIDS infection
is making more people more vulnerable than ever. Thus far, the number of grant benefi ciaries stands at over 11 million. The only problem of the current social security system is that it does not embrace all of the poor. It is hoped that future reforms of the system will effectively address the gaps in its coverage.

Africa Insight Vol. 37 (4) 2008 pp. 16-26