Social Development Minister Dina Pule stated her intention to deliver government services directly into the communities of Cape Town, as many residents live too far from service institutions.
Pule addressed a media event at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on Friday, October 2, 2026, shortly after visiting Delft as part of the Integrated Community Registration Program (ICROP).
This briefing marked the beginning of Social Development Month, which is running under the slogan 'Strengthening Families Through Partnership.' Pule emphasized that the visit to Delft was part of broader efforts to reach residents who have been cut off from state services.
During the event, Pule noted that they are visiting such areas as part of their service delivery efforts, continuing to bring social services directly into communities. She added that not everyone lives near state structures to receive these services, so it is necessary to go where the people are.
Among the issues she raised were gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), child protection, integrity of social grants, home visits, and the need to ensure the dignity of vulnerable people when seeking assistance.
The Minister also acknowledged that long waiting times at SASSA offices remain a problem. She reported that the department is working to improve queue management, staffing, appointment booking systems, and digital services, while prioritizing vulnerable citizens.
Regarding calls for increased social grants, the minister stated that any increase must be commensurate with the country's capacity, as grant distribution is determined within the national budget process. Pule stressed the need to consider the role of the National Treasury and overall budgetary processes in determining sustainably funded expenditures.
Dina Pule also believes that social protection should be linked to skills development, employment, and economic opportunities so that grant recipients do not become completely dependent on them. In connection with the 20th anniversary of SASSA social protection, she called for the creation of an agency that would be more accessible, efficient, and accountable, while also being technologically equipped and maintaining a human-centered approach.
The Minister also recognized the significant role of the media in identifying social problems, informing the public, holding institutions accountable, and giving a voice to vulnerable communities. She concluded that the state cannot solve social problems without societal participation.