KwaZulu-Natal Finance MEC Francois Rodgers has welcomed the adoption of the province's R168.2 billion budget for the 2026/27 financial year, marking an important milestone towards driving economic growth, strengthening service delivery and improving the lives of residents.
The budget, approved by the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature on Tuesday, provides a firm foundation for the province's continued journey from recovery to renewal and reflects government's commitment to responsible financial management, fiscal discipline and sustainable development.
Rodgers said the budget is aligned with the Provincial Financial Recovery Plan and is designed to protect frontline services, while creating conditions necessary for inclusive economic growth.
More than 80% of provincial expenditure has been allocated to the Education, Health and Social Development departments, with additional funding earmarked to ease budgetary pressures in the education and health sectors.
This includes support for the equalisation of Grade R teachers' salaries and the strengthening of critical healthcare services.
The budget also prioritises infrastructure development, job creation and economic growth. Significant funding has been allocated for road maintenance, the rehabilitation of infrastructure damaged by natural disasters, and investments in early childhood development, agriculture, tourism and public infrastructure to stimulate economic activity and create employment opportunities across the province.
Rodgers described the adoption of the budget as a strong vote of confidence in the province's future.
"Taking into account the constrained fiscal environment, this budget reflects the shared commitment of the Government of Provincial Unity to build a stronger, more resilient KwaZulu-Natal. It protects essential services, invests in our people, and creates opportunities for economic growth and job creation. Most importantly, it positions our province to move forward with confidence as we work together to deliver a better future for all citizens," Rodgers said.
The MEC said the provincial government will now focus on implementing the budget and ensuring that every rand spent delivers meaningful value to communities.
"Through sound governance, strategic investment and a continued focus on service delivery, the provincial government remains committed to building a prosperous, inclusive and growing KwaZulu-Natal," Rodgers said.
eNdumeni urged to adopt credible budget
Meanwhile, Rodgers has engaged with eNdumeni Mayor Mcebo Mkhize, senior councillors and municipal officials to discuss solutions to the political and administrative challenges that have prevented the municipality from adopting its 2026/27 budget, a breach of the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA).
The meeting, held on Monday, was attended by senior officials from the KwaZulu-Natal Treasury, the Provincial Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), and members of the MEC's Ministry.
According to the provincial treasury, discussions were constructive, with all stakeholders expressing a shared commitment to finding a solution that places the interests of eNdumeni residents first.
KwaZulu-Natal Treasury and Provincial CoGTA reiterated their availability to support the municipality in developing a credible and funded budget that will safeguard service delivery and improve the municipality's financial sustainability.
The meeting also discussed a proposed plan to address the municipality's debt to Eskom, which will be presented to the municipal council for consideration and possible adoption.
Rodgers said the people of eNdumeni deserve a municipality that is focused on service delivery and sound financial management.
"The focus of the budget and its approval should be in the best interests of the residents of eNdumeni. The people of eNdumeni are not all interested in politics, but all stand to benefit from affordable and sustainable services. The KZN Treasury team is committed to assisting the local municipality," Rodgers said.
The MEC reminded the municipality that the provincial government has resolved that eNdumeni must adopt a credible and funded budget by 31 July 2026, failing which the municipality will be dissolved, and an administrator will be appointed.
However, Rodgers emphasised that such an outcome is not the preferred option of the provincial government and that every effort should be made to resolve outstanding matters through cooperation and responsible leadership.
Rodgers also urged councillors to remain guided by the principle of putting principles before politics, and to work together in the interests of the community.
"The provincial government remains confident that, through continued engagement and collaboration, eNdumeni can adopt a credible budget that strengthens governance, protects service delivery and supports the municipality's long-term development," Rodgers said. – SAnews.gov.za
