Building Hope in Cape Town: A Comprehensive Budget for All

by
1 min read
budget infrastructure

On May 30th, 2023, the City of Cape Town revealed its largest-ever budget, aimed at addressing infrastructure and social needs while offering hope to residents facing increasing pressures. This ambitious plan, drafted after extensive consultation with stakeholders, marks a significant milestone for the city’s development.

Striking a Balance

The budget team managed to strike a balance between forward planning, addressing the most vulnerable residents’ immediate needs, and acknowledging ratepayers’ increasing pressures. Cape Town’s record capital expenditure budget focuses on staying ahead of population growth and urbanization in the city.

Investing in Infrastructure

The city’s investment in infrastructure surpasses that of other South African metros combined. Major projects underway include doubling sewer pipe replacements, upgrading pump stations, expanding MyCiti bus service, increasing the Metro Police force, investing in crime-fighting technology, expanding Safe Space transitional shelters, and releasing land for social housing.

Prioritizing Social Support

The budget includes social support packages totaling R4.3 billion, with R2.37 billion for free basic services and R1.96 billion for rates rebates, offering more significant support for the poor than any other city in the country. To counter Eskom’s tariff hike, Cape Town lowered the increase and provided special protection for lower-income households on the Lifeline tariff.

Extensive Relief for Indigent Residents

The budget includes a 50% increase in the rates-free portion for properties under R5 million and removes the stepped rebate. Cape Town offers the most extensive indigent relief in the country, with over 63,400 Capetonians having received partial or full debt write-off under the city’s debt assistance program.

Fostering Shared Prosperity

Investors find Cape Town an attractive place to invest, thanks to its commitment to good governance, increased revenue, and lower property rates. This virtuous cycle is fostering shared prosperity and an improved living environment for all.

A Result of Clean and Responsible Governance

The budget represents years of clean and responsible governance, the result of tireless work by the city’s CFO, policy unit, Mayoral Committee, Executive Management Team, and every councillor and official in the administration.

The City of Cape Town’s 2023/24 annual budget offers hope to its residents and a brighter future for the metro.

Tags:

You might be interested in

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

north west province policy speech
Previous Story

North West Premier Bushy Maape’s 2023/24 Budget Vote and Policy Speech

indigent relief infrastructure spending
Next Story

Cape Town’s ‘Building Hope’ Budget: A Beacon of Growth and Support for Vulnerable Citizens

Latest from Blog

early childhood education toy libraries

Cape Town’s Transformative Toy Libraries: Revolutionizing Early Childhood Development

Cape Town’s toy libraries are changing how young children learn by creating fun and exciting places to play and grow. With 24 vibrant libraries, kids can explore new stories and play with educational toys that help them develop important skills. Educators also benefit, gaining access to helpful resources that enhance teaching methods. This initiative not only supports children’s growth but also encourages a love for learning that can last a lifetime. As these libraries thrive, they inspire communities everywhere to embrace the joy of learning through play.

wastewater management urban sustainability

Innovative Urban Water Management: Embracing Wastewater Package Plants

Wastewater package plants are small, smart facilities that help cities manage dirty water in a cleaner way. They are easy to install and can be placed where big treatment plants can’t go, making them super useful for crowded urban areas. Recently, a workshop brought together many people to learn how to set up and run these plants, highlighting their importance for public health and the environment. By using these innovative systems, cities can boost their economies while making sure they take care of our precious water resources.

illegal mining south africa

Confronting Illegal Mining in South Africa: A Complex Battle

South Africa is fighting against illegal mining with a strong team of police, soldiers, and private security. They’ve recently targeted a large group of about 6,500 illegal miners in Ekurhuleni, where hidden tunnels and makeshift homes showed the extent of this underground world. While these operations can push miners away temporarily, true solutions need to address the economic struggles that drive people to these risky jobs. The goal is to create lasting change that not only protects the environment but also offers communities new opportunities for a better life.

fireworks policy public safety

Balancing Tradition and Safety: Cape Town’s Fireworks Policy

Cape Town is getting ready for exciting celebrations like Diwali and Guy Fawkes Night, but there are important rules about fireworks! To keep everyone safe, people must get permission from the police and have their event checked by the Fire and Rescue Service. While many love the colorful displays, some worry about noise and the danger to pets and wildlife. As the city balances fun traditions with safety, it’s clear that thoughtful celebrations can light up the sky without causing chaos below.