The biometric standard has been finalized and adopted by the Payments Association of South Africa (PASA) for use in the banking environment.
(a) SASSA did not cover the total cost, but initiated the process with the Centre for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). During engagements with South African Reserve Bank (SARB) and PASA, SARB issued an instruction to PASA to develop an industry standard for biometrics. SASSA then stopped work on the industry standard, but continued with work on the value of biometrics in social grant payments. The amount paid to CSIR was R 482 964.42 inclusive of VAT.
(b) There were not individual consultants used. SASSA contracted CSIR, a government agency, to undertake the research and development.
(c) CSIR was contracted for a number of work packages, related to the payment of social grants. The total amount of the contract for the development of a biometric enrolment and authentication system was R 3 323 066.94 inclusive of VAT.