KZN Allocates R150.5 Billion Budget to Boost Economic Growth and Employment

The MEC stressed the importance of good governance and financial management across all government departments and public entities.

KwaZulu-Natal Finance MEC, Francois Rodgers, unveiled a R150.5 billion provincial budget for the 2024/25 financial year at the legislature in Pietermaritzburg on Thursday, emphasizing the government's commitment to fostering economic growth and job creation.

Rodgers highlighted that the budget represents a strategic allocation of resources aimed at bringing tangible improvements to the lives of residents. He assured that despite the challenges ahead, the provincial government remains dedicated to utilizing public funds judiciously in line with the Public Finance Management Act to ensure progress towards a capable and ethical developmental state.

The MEC stressed the importance of good governance and financial management across all government departments and public entities. He emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and wasteful expenditure, asserting that stringent financial controls will help direct more funds towards essential service delivery.

Rodgers called on Heads of Departments, CEOs of public entities, and senior management to collaborate on best practices and enhance the monitoring and evaluation of programs. This collaborative effort is intended to improve service delivery and make necessary adjustments over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF).

In addressing the impact of recent veld fires on the province, Rodgers acknowledged the financial and psychological toll on affected communities. He assured that while recovery will be gradual, the provincial government has allocated resources to assist in rebuilding efforts. The possibility of declaring the incidents a provincial disaster is under consideration, and Rodgers encouraged businesses and social partners to contribute to relief efforts.

Overall, the budget aims to strengthen the provincial economy, promote employment, and support the recovery of communities impacted by recent disasters, reflecting a holistic approach to governance and development.