GAUTENG’s MEC for e-Government, Bonginkosi Dhlamini, has accepted the province’s budget allocation for the 2025/2026 financial year, despite acknowledging that it may not fully address all the challenges in his department posed by the current economic climate.
The Gauteng Department of e-Government has been allocated R1.5 billion, with a total of R4.8 billion set aside for the medium-term expenditure framework (MTEF), as announced during the Re-Tabling of the Gauteng Provincial Government Budget by Gauteng Treasury MEC Lebogang Maile on Tuesday, 03 June.
The investment in Gauteng’s Digital Future to Strengthen Infrastructure, Safety, and Youth Empowerment is of paramount importance.
While the budget signifies a substantial investment in the province’s digital infrastructure, Dhlamini emphasized that the allocated funds, though appreciated, might not be enough to fully cater for all public services in Gauteng due to the weak economy. However, he remains optimistic that these funds will serve as a vital step toward improving Gauteng’s technological landscape and supporting its growing digital initiatives.
One of the projects to benefit from the funding will be the Gauteng Provincial Network, a cornerstone of the province’s digital transformation strategy.
The allocation will facilitate the expansion of the network, improving broadband access and ensuring digital services reach more residents and businesses in Gauteng.
“While we recognize the challenges posed by our current economic conditions, this budget is a positive step in the right direction. It will help us strengthen the Gauteng Provincial Network (GPN) and enhance our province’s technological infrastructure,” said Dhlamini.
Another key aspect of the budget is its focus on leveraging technology to enhance public safety.
A significant portion of the funds will go toward the installation of additional CCTV cameras and expand the rollout of the e-Panic Button system in high-crime areas especially in Townships, Informal Settlements, and Hotels.
These efforts are part of a broader strategy to use technology to combat crime and improve safety across the province.
“Through the use of advanced technology such as CCTV surveillance and Panic Buttons, we are enhancing our ability to monitor and respond to criminal activities in real time. This will be especially important in crime hotspots where the need for increased safety measures is paramount,” added Dhlamini.
The budget also prioritizes skills development, particularly for the province’s youth, to ensure they are not left behind in the rapidly changing digital economy.
ICT skills development programs will be rolled out in all 5 corridors of the province to equip young people with the necessary skills to succeed in a technology-driven job market.
“As we continue to push for digital transformation in Gauteng, it is crucial that we equip our youth with the skills necessary to succeed in this new gig-economy. This investment in ICT skills development is essential for ensuring that we don’t leave anyone behind as we move forward,” concluded Dhlamini.
(Gauteng’s MEC for e-Government, Bonginkosi Dhlamini).
