The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) will be relocating offices in the Beaufort West area.
Image: File
Residents of Beaufort West in the Western Cape have raised urgent concerns following the South African Social Security Agency’s (Sassa) announcement that it will relocate its local branch.
The current office, leased through the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), is set to close on April 30, 2026, due to the expiration of the lease and significant safety violations. The new facility, located at 10 Garcia Street, is scheduled to be fully operational from May 4, 2026.
Sassa cited multiple Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) violations, including flooding and infrastructure damage, as the primary reasons for the move. However, the relocation has sparked debate over transport costs for the elderly and those living in vulnerable communities who rely on essential government services.
“Given these ongoing risks, the DPWI initiated an open tender process to identify a suitable alternative facility that meets the required OHS standards and ensures a safe environment for both clients and staff,” Sassa said.
A Sassa delegation met with the Beaufort West District Municipality on March 31, 2026, to discuss establishing additional service points in community halls, provided they meet safety standards.
Despite Sassa's assurance that service delivery will continue uninterrupted, Alex Fox, secretary of the ANCYL in the Central Karoo, noted that many residents are worried.
“Community members say the relocation will place the office further from low-income areas where most clients live, including the elderly and caregivers,” Fox said.
He highlighted that residents from Rustdene, KwaMandlenkosi, Hillside, and Prince Valley already face mobility issues and long travel distances.
Residents have urged Sassa to consider more central locations, such as the Rustdene Thusong Centre.
robin.francke@iol.co.za
IOL