At this moment, the basic income grant (BIG) is a matter of when and how and not if. There has been opposition to the grant from business and the lack of proper confirmation from the government. Regardless, it's very likely the grant could be introduced in some form or the other within the next year or so. That does pose a big question: could the BIG do more harm than good if not implemented properly. This leads to the question about what are the supposed intended policy consequences of the BIG.
Africa Melane spoke to Isobel Frye, executive director at Social Policy Initiative to talk about the ANC's view that a wealth tax is the preferred option to fund a basic income grant in South Africa
Money from a basic income grant will never be enough for everyone to lead a decent lifestyle. People who depend only on grant money will always be poor, but they will have enough to survive. A basic income grant would provide a dignity floor for all people in SA.