The government will closely monitor the new P300 Child Support Grant to ensure every pula is spent on its intended use
BONGANI MALUNGA
The Ministry of Local Government and Traditional Affairs has issued a stern warning to mothers and primary caregivers that the newly introduced P300 Child Support Grant must be used exclusively for the welfare of infants, with authorities preparing monitoring mechanisms to detect and address any misuse.
The one-year intervention, aimed at supporting children during the critical first 12 months of life, is intended to ease the burden on low-income families while combating malnutrition and promoting healthy early childhood development. Government officials insist that the money is not discretionary income but a targeted investment in essentials such as baby formula, nappies and nutritious food.
Responding to a question before Ntlo Ya Dikgosi last Thursday, Assistant Minister Ignatius Moswaane revealed that the ministry will rely on community structures and social welfare officers to ensure the programme achieves its intended purpose.
SAFEGUARDING CHILDREN’S WELFARE
“In instances where misuse is suspected, the Ministry will rely on established community structures and local social welfare officers to identify, assess and respond appropriately to safeguard the welfare and best interests of the affected children,” Moswaane announced.
The warning comes as the government rolls out the social protection initiative designed to improve infant nutrition outcomes among vulnerable households. According to Moswaane, the programme forms part of broader efforts to tackle child poverty and ensure that children receive adequate support during the formative stages of growth, when proper nutrition is crucial to physical and cognitive development.
Moswaane stressed that “caregivers have a responsibility to prioritise the needs of the child above all else in the use of the money”.
ELIGIBILITY RESTRICTED
Eligibility for the grant will be restricted to households whose parental income does not exceed P4000 per month, ensuring that support reaches families most in need. The government has earmarked more than P108 million for the initiative, a budget expected to cover as many as 40 000 beneficiaries across the country.
The grant will be paid directly to mothers or designated primary caregivers, with recipients given the option of receiving the funds through their personal bank accounts or a contracted payment service provider.
Moswaane said the direct transfer model is intended to simplify access while preserving dignity and convenience for beneficiaries. The ministry has made it clear that increased accessibility will be matched by accountability measures. By working with local leaders, social welfare personnel and community networks, authorities hope to quickly identify cases where the funds are diverted away from the needs of infants.