The Ministry of Community Development and Social Services (MCDSS) is conducting its routine nationwide bimonthly spot checks for the January–February 2026 Social Cash Transfer (SCT) payment cycle.
These inspections form part of the Ministry’s continued commitment to promoting transparency and accountability, and to ensuring that public resources reach the rightful and intended beneficiaries. The exercise also aims to encourage the proper utilisation of cash transfers at the household level.
Ministry officials have been deployed to districts and communities across the country to verify the accuracy of payments, monitor programme implementation, and engage directly with beneficiaries. This process ensures that resources are delivered efficiently and in line with established Social Cash Transfer Guidelines and Standards.
Speaking during the spot checks, SCT National Coordinator Mr. Stephen Chiwele explained that the exercise is critical in safeguarding the integrity of the programme.
“The spot checks are a routine exercise aimed at upholding accountability and ensuring that people on the Social Cash Transfer Programme receive their entitled support,” said Mr. Chiwele. “We are pleased to observe that many deserving beneficiaries are receiving their cash transfers, including newly enrolled households who are benefiting for the first time.”
In Mpongwe District, one of the newly enrolled beneficiaries, Mr. Siachilyata Malikano, aged 93, expressed gratitude to the Government for including him in the programme.
Mr. Malikano noted that the support has come at a critical time in his life, describing the cash transfer as a lifeline in his old age.
Beneficiary selection for the Social Cash transfer Programme is guided by household poverty profiling. While primary vulnerability criteria such as old age, chronic illness requiring palliative care, disability, or child-headed households are considered, these factors alone do not automatically guarantee inclusion.
Citizens currently on the waiting list are assured that progressive enrolment will continue through the continuous enrolment process as resources allow.
Members of the public with concerns or grievances are urged to utilise the established Grievance Redress Mechanisms to formally channel their complaints.
Newly enrolled beneficiaries are advised to utilise the funds for the benefit of the entire household rather than individuals. Beneficiaries are advised to avoid misuse of the funds on gambling, alcohol, or other negative vices, and instead invest the income support in meeting basic household needs and uplifting their families from destitution.
