By 
By Thokozani Mazibuko
The Minister of Finance, Neal Rijkenberg has finally announced the good news that the Elderly Persons have been waiting for.
In a move aimed at alleviating the financial burden on the most vulnerable members of our community, the Government has revealed a 20% increase in monthly grants for elderly citizens.
Delivering his 2025 National Budget Speech in Parliament, Finance Minister Neal Rijkenberg announced an allocation of E105 million to support an increase in monthly grants for the elderly. This decision comes as part of a broader initiative to cushion the effects of the current economic climate.
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According to the Minister, the additional funding will increase monthly grants for the elderly from E500 to E600. This significant boost is expected to bring relief to the over 84,740 elderly citizens who rely on these grants to meet their basic needs.
In his speech, Minister Rijkenberg stressed the importance of supporting vulnerable populations, highlighting the Government’s commitment to cash transfers for elderly persons and persons with disabilities.
“Through this financial year, we have continued to prioritize the needs of those who need it most,” he emphasized.
The Minister’s announcement has been welcomed by community leaders, who have long advocated for increased support for vulnerable members of society. “This is a positive step in the right direction,” said an elderly person.
“We are grateful to the Government for recognizing the struggles faced by our elderly citizens and taking concrete steps to address them.”
The allocation of E105 million to support the elderly grant comes amidst rising concerns about the impact of economic inflation on household budgets. With the cost of living continuing to rise, this increase in grant support is seen as a vital lifeline for those on the lowest incomes.
E50 Boosts to Disability Grants
All Grants will be disbursed through Mobile Money, more relief to the vulnerable- Minister of Finance
In a move welcomed by disability advocacy groups, the Eswatini government has announced an increase to the Disability Social Grant, coupled with a shift to mobile money payments aimed at improving efficiency and cutting costs.
Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg revealed the changes during his National Budget Speech, stating that an extra E50 will be added to each recipient’s monthly grant, bringing the total to E450.
Furthermore, the government plans to expand the program by 2,500 beneficiaries, extending support to even more individuals living with disabilities across the Kingdom.
“The government is committed to supporting vulnerable populations,” Rijkenberg stated. “This increase and expansion of the Disability Social Grant reflects that commitment.”
Currently, over 17,400 individuals with disabilities receive cash transfers from the state. The additional E50 will provide much-needed relief, helping recipients to better afford essential needs like food, healthcare, and transportation.
Perhaps the most significant long-term change is the planned transition to mobile money (MoMo) for grant payments in the 2025/26 financial year. This initiative aims to streamline the distribution process, reduce administrative burdens, and ultimately save the government an estimated E2.9 million per annum.
“Moving to the mobile money platform will not only improve efficiency but also reduce the risk of fraud and ensure that funds reach beneficiaries in a timely manner,” explained Rijkenberg.
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The move has been met with cautious optimism. While many welcome the increased grant and potential benefits of mobile money, concerns remain regarding accessibility and digital literacy among some recipients.
The government has assured the public that it will work closely with mobile network operators and community organizations to provide necessary assistance and ensure a smooth transition for all beneficiaries.
