The Presidency reported that 452,302 individuals benefitted from food and nutrition programmes, demonstrating progress in increasing access to nutritious food for vulnerable populations. These interventions help reduce poverty and strengthen household livelihoods by addressing food insecurity and improving wellbeing.

National Treasury announced increases to all major social grants in the 2026 Budget Review, including the old age, disability and care dependency grants, which rose to R2,400, and the child support grant, which increased to R580. The Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant was extended until 31 March 2027, supported by an additional R36.4 billion allocation. These measures are designed to strengthen income support for vulnerable households and contribute directly to poverty reduction and improved livelihoods

The 2026/27 national budget allocates R292.8 billion to social grants, providing support to 26.5 million beneficiaries. Grant values were increased, including an R80 rise in the old age, disability and care dependency grants to R2,400, and a R20 increase in the child support grant to R580. Government also extended the Social Relief of Distress Grant in its current form. These measures strengthen household incomes and provide direct assistance to poor and vulnerable South Africans.