The number of people receiving welfare benefits in Seychelles increased by nearly 58% during the first four months of the year, according to the Agency for Social Protection.
The increase comes as rising living costs continue to place financial pressure on households across the country.
Speaking to the press, ASP chief executive officer Roma Edmond said the number of beneficiaries rose from 624 in January to 987 in April.
“January we had 624 people on welfare benefits, in February it increased to 700, in March it went up to 861, in April 987,” said Mrs Edmond.
She attributed the increase to the rising cost of living and greater public confidence in seeking assistance.
“We think the increase in the first quarter happened because people previously did not have anywhere to turn for assistance. Today, they feel more comfortable coming forward and are no longer ashamed to seek help,” she said.
Mrs Edmond said people who qualify for welfare benefits also become eligible for additional financial support. This includes the Seychelles Trading Company (STC) card introduced by the government.
“The STC card will ensure that beneficiaries have access to basic commodities,” she said.
She added that the ASP and STC monitor how the cards are used. According to Mrs Edmond, STC produces reports every three months. These reports show the amount credited to the cards and how the funds are spent.
“If someone doesn’t use it, together with STC we have an internal control where we have all the authority to cancel the card and the person will not receive that assistance again,” she said.
However, she said beneficiaries are currently using the STC cards appropriately. Therefore, the agency has no reason to remove the assistance from anyone.