South Africa’s Deputy Minister, Thabang Makwetla, recently announced that the country would soon commence the pension payout rollout for military veterans. This initiative resulted from Parliament’s passage of the Military Veterans Act of 2011, which faced budget constraints that prevented its implementation. However, the Presidential Task Team (PTT) intervened to address these challenges, and the Government Pension Administration Agency has taken measures to ensure a smooth application process for the rollout.
Addressing Pension Payout Challenges
During the PTT discussion, one of the challenges identified was that military veterans who served in the statutory forces pre-1994, mainly in the TBVC states armies, experienced glitches in their pension payouts. Consequently, the Minister of Finance addressed the payout challenges faced by other civil servants, including military veterans.
Machinery to Ensure Smooth Application Process
The Government Pension Administration Agency has implemented machinery to facilitate the pension payout rollout for military veterans. The agency has set up infrastructure for military veterans to apply for their pension payouts from Freedom Day on 27 April 2023. Additionally, the agency has provided the capacity to process applications and offered recourse for those needing more time to make decisions concerning their applications.
Addressing Pension Challenges for Military Veterans
The department aims to address the challenges military veterans face when receiving their pensions through this rollout. The Government recognizes and appreciates the patience and cooperation of the beneficiaries of this pension. The initiative is expected to significantly address the challenges faced by military veterans when receiving their allowances.
Contact Details for Further Information
For further information, contact Mr. Mpho Lekgoro, the Communications, and Media Liaison Officer, via email at lekgoro.mpho@gmail.com or on his cell at 071 6073081.
