Speaking at the News24 On the Record Summit on 19 March, Ramaphosa said the redesigned grant will go beyond basic financial aid by helping recipients actively pursue employment and sustainable livelihoods.
The aim is to ensure that beneficiaries receive not only income support but also access to opportunities such as job placement, skills training, and enterprise development.
Business Tech reports that the Department of Social Development confirmed that the current R370 SRD grant will serve as the baseline for the new BIS system.
Work is already underway to develop a long-term, financially sustainable model, with macroeconomic testing being conducted to shape the final structure.
Under the proposed redesign, individuals aged 18 to 59 will be linked to economic opportunities. Government believes that connecting grant recipients to employment pathways can significantly improve their ability to build stable livelihoods.
The SRD grant itself has been extended until March 2027, following its inclusion in the 2026 national budget. During his State of the Nation Address, Ramaphosa indicated that this extension would allow time for the transition to a fully reworked system.
Consultations between the Department of Social Development and the National Treasury began in March 2026, focusing on funding and implementation.
A draft policy has already been reviewed, and with most groundwork completed, government aims to finalise discussions by the end of the month signalling that the rollout of the new Basic Income Support system is at an advanced stage.
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Picture: Gallo Images / Jeffrey Abrahams
