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The Department of Social Development (DSD) has recently focused on several strategic initiatives, including poverty reduction, supporting vulnerable populations, and improving social protection systems[1][2]. During the 2025/26 financial year, DSD emphasized its mandate to reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living, noting that social grants are a primary source of income for nearly 45% of South Africans[1]. The revised Annual Performance Plan and budget for the department aim to address the growing demand for social services amid persistent underfunding[1].

Nationally, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed that the first National Convention will proceed on 15 August 2025 despite organizational divisions. The event will unite 200 organizations across 33 sectors to launch a National Dialogue process addressing the country’s core challenges[4][7]. Key goals include endorsing the National Dialogue, outlining discussion themes, and establishing a representative Steering Committee to oversee implementation. The Dialogue will continue through public and sectoral engagements nationwide[4].

The Department’s updated strategic plan for 2025/26 highlights three main outcomes: reducing poverty and vulnerability, empowering resilient families and communities, and building a capable, ethical state[2]. The DSD works collaboratively with provincial agencies and the National Development Agency (NDA) to implement these priorities and has concluded performance agreements with officials to ensure delivery[2].

In the most recent budget statement, significant allocations were made for HIV/Aids programs, disability support, welfare services, and substance abuse prevention[3]. Notably, only two-thirds of the budget is used directly by DSD, with the remaining one-third distributed to NGOs and other partners in the social sector[3]. Efforts to tackle substance abuse include targeted prevention campaigns in 40 institutions of higher learning, especially TVET colleges[3].

Internationally, the DSD played an active role in South Africa’s 2025 G20 Presidency by highlighting social protection floors and advancing commitments for essential services and income security as outlined in ILO conventions[5]. The upcoming G20 Development Working Group meeting will continue to discuss national and international advancements in social protection[5].

October will see the observance of Social Development Month, including events focused on recognizing and supporting older persons through Older Persons Week and Active Aging Week. These campaigns—run in conjunction with SASSA and the NDA—seek to inform communities about accessible social security programs[6].

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