The Minister of Social Development, Nokuzola Sisisi Tolashe, has published draft amendments to the SRD regulations in the Government Gazette to extend the R370 COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant for another year.
The monthly grant which provides a lifeline to millions of unemployed and low-income citizens was originally scheduled to end on 31 March 2026 was continued by President Cyril Ramaphosa when he said it will continue from 1 April 2026 until 31 March 2027 during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) last week.
President Ramaphosa said: “Since it was introduced during COVID-19, the Social Relief of Distress Grant has kept millions of South Africans out of food poverty. As a transformative instrument to improve the lives of the poorest and most vulnerable people, this grant will be continued. This year, we will redesign the grant to more effectively support livelihoods, skills development, work opportunities and productive activity.”
The published draft amendments are open for public comment allowing individuals and organisations to provide input before they are finalized.
“This extension is critical for many South Africans who continue to face financial challenges. We encourage the public to review the draft regulations and submit their comments to ensure the programme continues to serve those who need it most,” said Minister Tolashe.
Written comments on the draft amendments to the Regulations must be submitted within 21 days from the date of publication, which is 11 February 2026.
Comments can be forwarded to:
Postal Address:
Dr Maureen Mogotsi
Chief Director: Social Assistance
The Department of Social Development
Private Bag X901
Pretoria, 0001
Physical Address:
Dr Maureen Mogotsi
Chief Directorate: Social Assistance
134 Pretorius Street
HSRC Building
Pretoria, 0001
Alternatively, written comments may be submitted by email to: SAREGS@dsd.gov.za
