Harare, (New Ziana) – The Government has dismissed as false and misleading social media claims alleging that every Zimbabwean aged 70 years and above is entitled to automatic monthly payments after registering at Makombe Building in Harare, urging members of the public to disregard the misinformation.
In a public notice, the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare permanent secretary Pfungwa Kunaka, clarified the government does not have a blanket program to provide monthly payments to all citizens aged 70 and above.
“The Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare has noted false messages circulating on social media claiming that all persons aged 70 years and above should go to Makombe Building in Harare to register for automatic monthly payments,” he said.
He stressed that while the government remains committed to supporting older persons through various social protection programs, eligibility for assistance is determined through a means-testing process as provided for under the Older Persons Act and the Older Persons Manual.
“Government through the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare provides social assistance to all older persons and this is done in line with the Older Persons Act [Chapter 17:11] and the Older Persons Manual, and support to older persons is means-tested. This means eligibility is assessed based on vulnerability, income and other criteria set out in the law and not on age alone,” he said.
The clarification comes amid widespread circulation of false messages on social media claiming that all elderly citizens should report to Makombe Building for registration to receive automatic monthly payouts.
To dispel the misinformation, the Ministry outlined three key facts. Firstly, it emphasized that there are no blanket monthly payments for every person aged 70 years and above. Secondly, it noted that social assistance is targeted at older persons who satisfy specific vulnerability criteria prescribed by law. Thirdly, it clarified that the Department of Social Development has not announced any mass registration exercise for all elderly citizens at Makombe Building.
“There is no program paying every person aged 70+ monthly,” Kunaka stated, adding that assistance is targeted to older persons who meet specific vulnerability criteria outlined in the Act and Manual.
Kunaka further urged Zimbabweans to verify information before sharing it on social media, warning that the spread of false information creates unnecessary confusion among vulnerable members of society.
“We urge citizens to ignore and not share unverified messages. For accurate information on programs for older persons, visit your nearest District Social Development Office,” he said.
He also cautioned members of the public against paying anyone to access Government social welfare services.
The government continues to implement a range of social protection programs aimed at supporting vulnerable groups, including older persons, orphans and vulnerable children, persons with disabilities and households in need, with assistance provided in accordance with established legal and policy frameworks to ensure that support reaches those who need it most.
New Ziana
