The Western Cape Government has re-tabled its budget for the 2025/26 financial year, unveiling an ambitious plan to allocate R89.316 billion, reports Cape {town} Etc.
This forms part of a larger expenditure of R269.524 billion over the next three financial years, a strategic investment aimed at bolstering critical sectors across the province.
Western Cape Minister of Finance, Deidré Baartman, has emphasised the significance of this budget in addressing the diverse needs of the community. ‘More than 80% of our total budget over the next three years an incredible R215.8 billion will be aimed at enhancing social services. This approach demonstrates our commitment to fostering a sustainable and equitable society for all,’ she stated.
The allocated funds for social services will be dispersed across crucial sectors, with education receiving the lion’s share at R101 billion.
Health services will follow closely with an allocation of R100 billion, while housing and social protection will see investments of R6.4 billion and R8.4 billion, respectively.
In line with its stated Apex Priority of fostering growth and job creation, the Western Cape Government has earmarked substantial investments across several policy areas.
These include:
- Growth for Jobs: R43.789 billion
- Safety: R3.955 billion
- Educated, Healthy and Caring Society: R194.928 billion
- Innovation, Culture, and Governance: R23.439 billion
Infrastructure development also remains a priority for the province, with Baartman announcing a commitment of R32.898 billion towards this area over the medium-term expenditure framework (MTEF). This investment is expected to play a critical role in enhancing the overall quality of life for residents and facilitating growth throughout the province.
Furthermore, Baartman mentioned that additional funding for education and health will be made available following a recent announcement by Minister Godongwana.
Although these funds will not be included in the current budget, they will be allocated to the relevant provincial departments once received later this year.
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Picture: Noko Phineas Masipa / Facebook
