Suriname Ministry aims to end social benefit arrears by 2027

Suriname’s Ministry of Social Affairs and Housing (Sozavo) has announced plans to eliminate social benefit payment arrears by 2027. Minister Diana Pokie aims to achieve this by transitioning from a cash-based system to digital payment methods.

In collaboration with the Suriname Post Savings Bank (SPSB), the ministry is developing a nationwide digital payment application. This shift is intended to reduce high operational costs and logistical difficulties associated with cash distributions, particularly in remote districts such as Brokopondo and Sipaliwini. While most other districts currently use the Monikarta system, the ministry is refining its distribution processes and has signed a new contract with SPSB for card provision.

The ability to clear existing backlogs depends on the availability of funds from the Ministry of Finance and Planning. Additionally, the ministry has noted low turnout for recent calls to collect uncollected Monikartas and is seeking ways to ensure all eligible citizens are reached.