The National Department of Social Development has dismissed false claims circulating on social media that the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress grant is set to end.
Videos and graphics spreading across various social media platforms have incorrectly stated that the government plans to terminate the cSRD programme, prompting the department to issue an urgent clarification.
“These claims are categorically false,” the department stated. “There is no such decision, announcement or directive from the Department or government regarding the termination of the cSRD.”
The department expressed particular concern over the unauthorised use of the minister’s official image and the department’s logo in the misleading posts, warning that such actions constitute illegal misrepresentation of government communication.
Warning against misinformation
Social development officials have cautioned the public against creating and sharing fake news that causes unnecessary panic amongst grant beneficiaries who depend on the monthly payments.
The department urged South Africans to disregard the false information and rely solely on verified announcements from official government channels.
“DSD strongly discourages the creation and circulation of fake news that causes unnecessary panic and distress among social grant beneficiaries,” the statement read.
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Use official channels
The department directed the public to four official sources for accurate information about social grants and government announcements.
These include the Department of Social Development’s official website, SASSA and NDA official platforms, verified government social media pages, and the DSD WhatsApp Channel.
The clarification comes as millions of South Africans continue to rely on the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress grant for financial support, making any rumours about its termination particularly concerning for vulnerable communities.
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