Pretoria — Government has over the years intensified its poverty reduction efforts with the number of people living below the poverty line declining from 53 percent in 1996 to 41percent in 2007.

This is according to an annual report released on Tuesday by the Public Service Commission (PSC) on the performance of the public service.

It said the introduction of the Public Works Programme, which has provided jobs to thousands of people, free basic services and no fee schools have all played a crucial role in the eradication of the scourge of poverty.

Social grants have been one of the most effective ways of reducing poverty, stated the report.

"The number of people receiving social grants has increased form 2, 4 million in 1997 to over 12 million in 2008, of which child support grants comprises the largest proportion," it said.

It further noted that further steps will have to be taken to ensure that the poor can access the necessary opportunities emanating from the hosting of the soccer world cup next year.

"In addition, measures to cushion citizens from the impacts of the global economic crisis should be pursued with vigor" said the PSC reports.