News

    Home News

    SASSA Older Person Grants For December 2024 | Full Details

    0

    The agency is urging recipients of SASSA Older Person grants for December 2024 to save and spend their money wisely, as it is the final disbursement of the year. The festive season is meant to be a time of celebration and family coming together, however, expenses can quickly spiral out of control over the holidays.

    Nevertheless, if you’re not already receiving the benefits, let’s quickly run through the eligibility requirements of SASSA Older Person grants for December 2024. By law, the South African Social Security Agency is entrusted to protect elderly residents – over the age of 60 – who have served the country their whole lives but no longer have sufficient financial means to support themselves.

    SASSA OLDER PERSON GRANTS FOR DECEMBER 2024

    However, SASSA Older Person grants for December 2024 are unique in that they are privy to an asset and means test. This is so not just anyone who applies for social welfare will receive the monthly stipend. You have to prove to the agency that you’re sufficiently underprivileged in your latter years. With that in mind, let’s go through the qualifying criteria, explain how much pensioners get paid each month, and share the positive news for future SASSA grants in 2025.

    Beneficiaries of SASSA Older Person grants for December 2024 don’t have to wait long for the next payout date, which takes place next week:

    • On Tuesday 3 December 2024, beneficiaries aged 60 to 74 receive R2 190.
    • Recipients aged 75 and older will be paid R2 210 into their bank accounts.

    If you’re applying this festive season, you should note that applications take upwards of three months to process. The reason for this admittedly long amount of time is SASSA and Department of Home Affairs’ cross-referencing of data before approval.

    HOW TO APPLY FOR OLDER PERSON GRANT

    However, the good news is, if successful, you will receive backdated funds from the date of your application. So, who is eligible for SASSA Older Person grants for December 2024, and how do you apply? Firstly, only residents 60 years of age or older can apply. Note the term ‘residents’ here, because SASSA doesn’t only look after citizens but all legal dwellers in South Africa, too.

    If this is you, your application must be done at a SASSA office or branch with an official present to oversee and assist you. However, a new SASSA online services portal does allow you to make an appointment online. Click HERE for more. You’ll do this before you present your documents and biometric data in-person at a SASSA branch.

    This is what you’ll require:

    • Official bar-coded identity document (ID) – smart card or green booklet.
    • Documents proving marital status.
    • Proof of residence (utility bill with your name on it).
    • Confirmation of your proof of income/financial dividends.
    • Any relevant information regarding your assets, including a valuation of your property.
    • Declaration of any private pension (if applicable).
    • Valid three months’ statements certified by your bank (no older than three months).
    • Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) membership book, or discharge certificate from your previous employer.
    • A copy of your will, and first/final liquidation and distribution accounts if your spouse has passed away in the last five years.

    ASSET AND MEANS TEST

    n confirm your income and validity of government-funded pension. It may seem unfair, but if you have sufficient means through a private pension, savings and personal assets, you will not be granted SASSA Older Person grants for December 2024. This is so only the neediest residents benefit from the funds.

    Furthermore, SASSA officials will enforce the following income and asset limits on your application:

    • You cannot earn more than R8 070 per month (R96 840 per year) if single.
    • The income limit is R16 140 per month (R193 680 per year) if married.
    • Total value of your assets declared must not exceed R1 372 800 if single.
    • And your assets cannot be valued higher than R2 745 600 if married.

    DO YOU NEED FURTHER ASSISTANCE?

    Getting to a SASSA office can be difficult if you’re old, sick or live in a remote area. So, will SASSA allow you to get a family member or loved one to help with your application? Of course, however, they will need a letter from you and/or a doctor’s note explaining why you cannot apply yourself.

    Moreover, all of the above documentation must be taken to a police station and certified by a commissioner of oaths. The person assisting you can complete all the relevant application forms in the company of a SASSA officer. Finally, if your SASSA Older Person grants for December 2024 is denied, remember that you have 90 days to appeal the decision with the Department of Social Development. Contact the agency below:

    • SASSA toll-free line: 0800 601 011
    • Head Office of SASSA: 012 400 2322
    • Email SASSA: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
    • Or email: president@presidency.gov.za

    SASSA PENSION INCREASE IN 2025

    Beyond SASSA Older Person grants for December 2024 and Minister Enoch Godongwana’s mid-term statement, the National Treasury has approved in R2.7-billion increase in social welfare spending for 2025. This brings the provisioned amount to R330 billion for next year. And although there is no official word on what the SASSA grant increases will be in April 2025, you can click HERE to read about our latest prediction.

    Skeem Saam’ December Spoiler | Mr Kgomo Marries Melita

    0

    @mdili71: “Mr Cow should have reconciled with Ivy. Ivy has more class than this straatmeid (street maid).”

    @joseph17_phuti: “Ivy is still legally married to Obed. No shortcuts please Skeem Saam.”

    @Zamatola05: “I didn’t understand why she kept it under that table, but I am m thankful that she did now someone knows she is not what she portrays herself to be.”

    @teffo_ME: “Ivy was stupid to hide the phone under her table, she should have buried it in Magongoa’s backyard.”

    @yakwa_mzizi: “She’ll use it to blackmail Mr Kgomo and Mrs Kgomo so that Mr Kgomo can marry her.”

    Black Friday Grocery Deals 2024 | Where To Find The Best Deals

    0

    Just one-week away from the big day, we want to find the best 2024 Black Friday grocery deals in South Africa. In case you’ve been living in outer space, this year’s Black Friday lands on Friday 29 November 2024. Typically, the ‘greatest shopping event of the year’ is dominated by massive discounts on electronics and large consumer appliances. Not exactly every-day stuff …

    However, if you follow The South African audience, you’ll know they’re all about finding the best value in 2024 Black Friday grocery deals. As a result, we’ve looked through historical data and consumer analysis of the top South African retailers to find where the biggest discounts can be had. We’ll rank South Africa’s top five bulk supermarkets below …

    2024 BLACK FRIDAY GROCERY DEALS

    Not every South African retailer has published their 2024 Black Friday grocery deals yet, but here’s how their discounts and consumer sentiment compare historically. We hope this will help cash-strapped South African shoppers maximise their savings on their 2024 Black Friday grocery deals:

    1. CHECKERS/SHOPRITE

    As you may already know for our regular supermarket price comparisons, Shoprite /Checkers consistently offers the deepest discounts on staple food items in and outside of its 2024 Black Friday grocery deals. Likewise, historical data shows anywhere between a 30 to 50% saving on bulk household items. Better still, the supermarkets tend to extend their Black Friday deals a week either side of the big day. Digital-only deals via Sixty60 often provide an additional 5 to 10% saving.

    2. PICK N PAY

    Pick n Pay may have had a tough year behind closed boardroom doors, but it always offers very competitive discounts on household and non-perishable items. Up to 25% on average, with peak deals reaching 40% on selected items. Plus, there are even better savings to be had on 2024 Black Friday grocery deals when using the Smart Shopper points multiplier. Up to 10%. Visit their online shopping platform and search for exclusive digital offers and unique two-for-one specials on essential items, too.

    3. MAKRO

    This retailer is a South African favourite and while you’re more likely to pick-up a cracking deal on a large home appliance, Makro also offers massive bulk-buying advantages. There have historically been savings of up to 35% on bulk purchases of non-perishable household items, pantry staples and beverages. Bulk buying may not be for everyone, but their stores also enjoy extended trading hours on Black Friday.

    4. GAME

    Look out for aggressive pricing on household basics and cleaning supplies as part of its 2024 Black Friday grocery deals. Also, Game’s ‘We Beat Any Price’ price-matching policy is a winner if you find the same item anywhere else for less. Just be sure you can prove the price in question to avoid a lengthy debate with customer services. Enjoy around 35% savings and extended Black Friday promotions, too.

    5. SPAR

    Spar’s approach to 2024 Black Friday grocery deals is less centralised. It offers more local store-specific deals for greater neighbourhood convenience. As a result, you could pick up a 30%-off deal on fresh produce, dairy and other daily grocery products just in your store.

    BLACK FRIDAY GROCERY SHOPPING TIPS

    Do as much preparation beforehand to secure the best 2024 Black Friday grocery deals. Try and download apps from the above retailers ahead of Black Friday. Sign up for their loyalty programs to secure those extra discounts. And compare prices regularly next week across store and digital promotions. Also, don’t forget to check expiration dates on bulk purchases and perishable items you may buy.

    If there is an expiration date, consider buying and sharing bulk-item purchases with family and friends. Also, don’t buy in bulk without sufficient storage capacity (fridge/freezer for frozen products). Keep checking prices when evaluating deals to see if the sale prices is in fact worth the trip. And don’t forget to factor in transport costs when travelling to remote locations. Finally, carefully weigh-up impulse buys of non-essential items just because they’re selling at a big discount.

    MultiChoice and Showmax CEO Resigns

    0

    Media group MultiChoice has announced that MultiChoice South Africa (MCSA) and Showmax CEO Marc Jury has resigned.

    Jury, who only took up the position of MultiChoice boss in April last year, will leave on 31 March 2025.

    He was previously CEO of SuperSport.

    The group said that Jury would continue to work at the company the next four months to ensure a seamless handover to his successor, Byron du Plessis, who will take over the role of MCSA CEO on 1 December 2024.

    Du Plessis has been at MultiChoice for 13 years and is currently the deputy chief financial officer for the group, working as CFO of Multichoice Corporate and MCSA before that.

    At the time of publishing it’s unclear what exactly lies ahead for Jury, although an internal memo sent to staff indicated that he would ‘pursue opportunities in the business of sport’.

    Latest in a long line of employees to leave

    Jury’s exit follows a string of several senior executives leaving the pay-TV operator business in recent years.

    In April this year, Imtiaz Patel stepped down as chairperson of MultiChoice. This was despite the group saying that Patel would remain as chair until the conclusion of the Canal+ transaction.

    Showmax CEO Yolisa Phahle resigned in 2023. Jury took up this position following her departure.

    In 2022 Gideon Khobane, MultiChoice’s group executive of general entertainment, left the business.

    School Calendar | When December Holidays Start

    0

    South African schools will officially close for the year on Wednesday, 11 December, marking the end of the fourth term. Learners and educators will enjoy an extended break before schools reopen on Wednesday, 15 January 2025, to kick off the new school year.

    The upcoming December holiday provides families just over four weeks to prepare for 2025. The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has also announced unique adjustments to next year’s calendar, including special school holidays.

    Special holidays in 2025

    South Africa will have three special school holidays in 2025: 29 April, 30 April, and 2 May. These additional days aim to bridge the gap between two public holidays in the same week—Freedom Day, observed on Monday, 28 April, and Workers’ Day on Thursday, 1 May.

    The adjustments follow Section 2(1) of the Public Holidays Act, which states that when a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday becomes a public holiday.

    Highlights of the 2025 School Calendar

    The year comprises four terms, interspersed with school holidays and public holidays. Key dates include:

    • Term 1: 15 January to 28 March, with holidays from 29 March to 7 April.
    • Term 2: 8 April to 17 June, followed by holidays from 18 June to 8 July.
    • Term 3: 22 July to 3 October, with a short holiday from 6 October to 10 October.
    • Term 4: 13 October to 10 December.

    In addition to public holidays such as Heritage Day and Youth Day, learners will enjoy breaks, providing ample time for families to recharge.

    Inyanga Kelly Khumalo Warns Jub Jub (Breaking curses)

    0

    Newly inducted inyanga Kelly Khumalo has seemingly taken a swipe at her ex Jub Jub – real name Molemo Maarohanye – after claiming she was on a mission to “break generational curses”.

    The mother-of-three – who recently turned 40 years old – announced that she had been officially inducted as a traditional healer.

    NEW INYANGA KELLY KHUMALO THROWS SHADE AT JUB JUB?

    Earlier this week, Kelly Khumalo revealed that she was officially a certified inyanga or traditional healer.

    The singer hosted a bash to celebrate her birthday and her official appointment as a sangoma.

    In her latest Instagram post, Kelly posted a pic of herself with her 14-year-old son, Christian.

    The teen’s father is Jub Jub, who is reportedly not present in his life.

    Kelly captioned the image: “Healing ones bloodline and breaking generational curses is not an easy journey. However it must be done not only for ourselves but the next generation and the rest of our bloodline going forward”.

    Over the years, Kelly Khumalo has been vocal about raising Christian as a single mother. She also had a fraught relationship with her first baby daddy, with many back-and-forth insults being thrown between them.

    According to Jub Jub, he has also been denied requests to visit his son, a claim which Kelly denies.

    Speaking on Podcast & Chill in 2020, Kelly claimed that Jub Jub was required to perform a cultural ritual if he hoped to have a relationship with his son.

    She said: “It requires owning up to his past mistakes, amending not just to me. He must apologize to my family and the ancestors, and that includes the slaughtering of an animal. But again, that’s only if he thinks his son is worth it.”

    BITTER SPLIT FROM BABY DADDY

    Kelly Khumalo and Jub Jub dated from 2008 to 2012. In 2010, their Christian son was born. During this time, the hitmaker – now known as the host of MojaLove show Uyajola 9/9 – was on trial for being behind the wheel of a car crash that killed four school children.

    He was later sentenced to 25 years in jail each for murder, attempted murder and three related offences. The charges were later overturned as culpable homicide. In 2017, Jub Jub was released from prison on parole after serving just 4 years.

    During their relationship, Kelly Khumalo alleges she suffered physical and emotional abuse at the hands of Jub Jub. The singer also opened a restraining order against the rapper, who also alleged that he had cheated on her during their relationship.

    Police Defence Ministries Head To North West As Zama Zamas Stay Underground

    0

    The police and defence ministers, Senzo Mchunu and Angie Motshekga respectively, are expected to visit North West where over 4000 illegal miners are reportedly underground in the Orkney and Stilfontein mine shafts.

    SAPS and SANDF members intensified Operation Vala Umgodi by blocking all entry and exit points in abandoned mines in North West that were used to deliver food, water and other necessities to the zama zamas. To date, over 1000 illegal miners have been arrested.

    In November 2023, President Cyril Ramaphosa deployed the SANDF to support the SAPS and enhance public safety following complaints about alleged illegal miners in various communities, especially in Gauteng and North West.

    POLITICIANS ATTEND TO ZAMAS ZAMAS

    North West police spokesperson Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said in line with safeguarding lives, the SAPS and SANDF have since allowed for water and food to be delivered to those underground so that they can safely resurface.

    Mokgwabone said police and other safety officials will remain in place in the North West until all illegal miners resurface and are arrested.

    “The SAPS calls on these illegal miners to resurface so that they can get relevant help or aid, including any medical attention that may be required. We appeal to the community in the area to allow the police space to do their job. The SAPS will not allow criminality to thrive,” he said.

    Police ministry spokesperson Kamogelo Mogotsi said the visit will reinforce government’s commitment to bring the ongoing operation to a safe and lawful conclusion.

    Mogotsi said despite multiple calls, a significant number of illegal miners are yet to resurface.

    “The visit seeks to interact and engage law enforcement agencies on the ground, engage the North West government and mining leadership and other relevant stakeholders, and to further assess the progress on the ground, challenges and work out appropriate responses,” Mogotsi explained.

    RESCUE OPERATIONS CONTINUE

    Meanwhile, community members have decided to deliver food and water to the miners who are reportedly not physically well and dehydrated. They have also decided to rescue the illegal miners without the assistance of law enforcement agencies who are on the scene.

    This comes as minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni also emphasised that government would not assist the zama zamas and referred to them as criminals who need to be “persecuted”, not helped.

    “You want us to send help to criminals? Honestly, we’re not sending help to criminals. We’re going to smoke them out, they will come out. We’re not sending help to criminals. Criminals are not to be helped, criminals are to be persecuted.

    “We didn’t send them there, and they didn’t go down there for the good benefit or good intentions for the republic. So, we can’t help them, those who want to help them must go and take the food down there. They will come out and we’ll arrest them,” Ntshavheni said.

    Malema Relishing Another Fight With MK Party Leader (‘I’m not scared of Zuma’)

    0

    Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema says he is not scared of uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party leader Jacob Zuma and would fight him with ease.

    The MK Party has been “poaching” prominent EFF leaders, including co-founder Floyd Shivambu – who has since been appointed as secretary-general.

    JULIUS MALEMA READY TO FIGHT JACOB ZUMA

    A number of EFF members, including former public protector advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane, Zuma ally Mzwanele Manyi, and most recently advocate Dali Mpofu, have ditched the Red Berets and joined Zuma’s party.

    Following Mpofu’s departure, Malema said he is expecting two more “favourites” to leave the EFF and join the MK Party.

    Speaking on his party’s podcast, Malema said he can’t be threatened by Zuma and that this is not the first time their relationship is the way it is at the moment.

    “I defeated Zuma. He thought he buried me when he expelled me from ANC for comparing him to Thabo Mbeki, for saying there is a regime change which happened in Botswana now. I was guilty for that. I was expelled from ANC by Zuma and Ramaphosa was used as an instrument,” he said.

    “Jacob Zuma is inviting me back to fight with him and I’ll do it, I’ll do it with ease. I’m not scared of Zuma or all of his people who are working with him. There’s no way anyone is going to threaten the existence of the EFF and that person becomes a friend. It would be a lie and we would be lying to ourselves,” he added.

    RED BERETS TO HOLD ELECTIVE CONFERENCE

    Meanwhile, the EFF will hold its National People’s Assembly in December where the party will elect new leadership and review some of its policies.

    Earlier this year Malema told SABC News that he is absolutely available for a third term.

    He also acknowledged that it is up to the delegates whether he comes back from the conference as leader or not.

    Notably, since the party was launched 11 years ago, Malema and his former deputy Shivambu were the only two who retained their positions. It is not yet clear if anyone will contest Malema.