The 2024/25 Provincial Fiscal Framework has been amended to reflect an increase of R1.3 billion to the provincial budget. This was announced by the MEC for Finance, Bonakele Majuba, on November 19.
The adjusted Budget increased the total provincial budget, tabled in March 2024, from R61.608 billion to R62.954 billion.
The additional funding requested is expected to bolster programmes aimed at social development, education and healthcare, as well as the completion of long-standing infrastructure pivotal projects towards promoting overall community welfare and economic growth.
Majuba said the increase would enable all provincial departments and entities to better respond to the needs of residents.
“The provincial government is committed to transparency and accountability and all departments must ensure that these additional resources are utilized solely to improve delivery of basic services and impact on the economy,” he said.
The adjusted budget makes provision for (over and above other allocations):
- R40 million towards the Disaster Relief Programme;
- R107.6 million for operationalisation and equipping of the Mpumalanga International Fresh Produce Market;
- R160 million (total allocation for this year – R280m) for learner support material and e-learning;
- R10 million for eradication of pit latrines in schools;
- R50 million towards the budget shortfall for scholar transport;
- R24 million for the procurement of a fleet of traffic enforcement vehicles as announced by the Premier in his Legislature opening address and
- R15 million added to the provided budget for the procurement of ambulances.
