‘If you can’t afford a baby don’t have one’: SASSA children’s grant debate turns fierce

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South Africans are divided over the future of SASSA support for children, with some proposing changes that parents say would hurt.

0 A tender moment with a mother holding her baby by a window. Image: Pexels A report on SASSA children’s grants coming under review has sparked one of the most heated debates among South Africans on the future of social support.

The reactions poured in on The South African’s Facebook page after the publication shared its report on November 2026 children’s grants.

Several commenters argued that the system needs limits.

Wendy Paviour proposed a sliding scale. “grant for one child, 50 % for second, nothing for third,” Paviour wrote, arguing that grants have left grandmothers caring for children while mothers spend on themselves.

Elizabeth Jacobs was even more direct. “If you can’t afford a baby, don’t have one…” Jacobs wrote.

Wade Hendricks suggested shifting money to older and disabled South Africans. “Limit grant to one child and cut the R370 and redirect funds to increase pensioners and disabilities pay,” Hendricks wrote.

Jay Mtungwa went further than anyone, calling for the entire grant system to be scrapped in favour of job creation.

“Cancel the whole damn grant thing, better to put it into employment,” Mtungwa wrote, arguing that adult children should support their parents and fathers should support their children.

His comment drew a mix of likes, hearts and laughing reactions, reflecting how divided the thread became.

For millions of households, the Child Support Grant is often the only regular income, covering school transport, food and clothing. Research has repeatedly linked the grant to improved nutrition and school attendance among children in low-income homes.

The debate also exposes a tension between generations. Pensioners in the thread want higher Older Persons Grants, while caregivers fear any review could reduce support for children.

SASSA has not confirmed any plan to cap the Child Support Grant by number of children. Caregivers should watch SASSA’s official channels for confirmed details on any review and how it may affect November payments.

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