Govt moves to flash out ghost pensioners

The Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development has embarked on a nationwide verification exercise to ensure that only bona fidepensioners are receiving government grants.

Speaking before the National Assembly yesterday, Minister Pitso Lesaoana said the census was crucial to flash out ghost beneficiaries and ensure the fund reaches its intended recipients and help fight hunger and poverty among the elderly.

The verification exercise was prompted by reports of illegal payments to ghost beneficiaries. The government introduced the old age fund in 2021.

Following a three-month exercise from August last year, the ministry has recorded 11,000 elderly persons receiving government grants nationwide, either personally or through proxies. 

“This is the first time we are conducting anexercise to get an accurate count of elderly persons benefiting from the fund,” Pitso said

“The elderly fund is a vital safety net, and we must ensure it reaches those who truly need it. The ministry aims to complete the census and update records to prevent further abuse of the system. By doing so, the government can redirect resources to support vulnerable citizens effectively,” he added.