The Impact of Social Assistance Programmes on Poor Households in South Africa: A Case of Child Support Grant Policy at Mamelodi

Abstract

This paper aims to demonstrate the significance of providing social assistance, particularly the CSG, to poor households. The research's objective is to assess the impact that the CSG has on poor households. A mixed methods research design was applied. The study administered an online survey to 174 CSG beneficiaries in Mamelodi, Gauteng Province in South Africa. Furthermore, interviews were conducted with three key officials from the South African Social Security Agency local office in Mamelodi. Data was supplemented by research publication, including journal articles and research reports. The paper provides empirical insights on the impact that the CSG has on poor households. It indicates that 83% of households are of the view that they would be worse off without the provision of the CSG. Evidence from the literature and research data reflects the CSG to have positive effects on children's health, education and schooling, and provides women empowerment. Furthermore, the results illustrate that the grant is utilised on basic children's needs such as diapers, food, and school related expenses for instance, uniform, transportation fare and lunch. The limitations of this study encompassed the prevalence of Covid-19; thus, an online survey was administered in collecting data from the research participants. Consequently, the request to participate in the study was at times met with scepticism and seldomly, rejection. Furthermore, due to familiarity with technology, a majority of the research participants were 40 years old and below, conducting the survey in person might have included additional older persons who possibly could have had differing viewpoints. The paper includes implications for the continued provision of the CSG. Finally, this paper fulfils an identified need to illustrate not only the significance, but also the relevance of the CSG in reducing child poverty