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

theater apartheid

Bridging the Past and Present with *That Boy Has No Shoes*

That Boy Has No Shoes is a powerful play that brings South Africa’s painful past of Apartheid to life in a unique way. Instead of human actors, everyday objects like an axe and a camera tell their stories, allowing the audience to feel the weight of history. Created by Lara van Huyssteen, the play aims to spark empathy and understanding, especially among those who may not know much about this dark chapter. After its success in London, it now returns to Cape Town, not just to tell a story but also to inspire change by providing shoes for children in need. This emotional journey reminds us to remember the past as we look forward to a better future.

animal cruelty animal rescue

Unveiling the Hidden Cruelty in Animal Shelters

In the beautiful town of Atlantis, shocking secrets have been uncovered in animal shelters, revealing terrible neglect and abuse. The SPCA found 163 dogs and 29 tortoises in dire conditions, showing that some shelters are not the safe havens they claim to be. This pattern of cruelty is disturbing, as other cases have also shown dogs, cats, and rabbits suffering from neglect. The SPCA is fighting hard for better rules and accountability to protect these vulnerable animals and ensure they receive the care they truly deserve. Amidst this dark reality, there is hope as the SPCA works to bring about meaningful change for all animals in need.

heroism sea rescue

Heroic Rescue at Hermanus: A Tale of Survival and Bravery

On a fishing trip off the coast of Hermanus, a father and three teenagers faced a terrifying ordeal when their boat capsized in icy waters. For over seven hours, they clung to the boat, battling cold and fear, until local anglers spotted them and alerted the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI). The rescuers swiftly arrived, pulling the tired group from the sea and providing urgent care. Thanks to their bravery and quick thinking, all four were rescued and are now on the road to recovery, a shining example of hope and courage in the face of danger.

daily struggles local experiences

Life in Cape Town: Unique Experiences and Daily Struggles

Living in Cape Town is a beautiful yet bumpy ride. The city’s stunning views and lively culture are often met with challenges like wild winds and unpredictable weather that can change plans in an instant. Finding parking feels like searching for buried treasure, and traffic jams can test anyone’s patience. Despite these daily struggles, the spirit of Capetonians shines through, making life in this vibrant city a blend of resilience and joy.

dinosaur tracks ichnology

Unveiling the Footprints of Giants: Dinosaur Tracks in South Africa’s Western Cape

Dinosaur tracks discovered in South Africa’s Western Cape are like magical windows into the past, revealing how these incredible giants once moved and lived. Recent findings show footprints from about 140 million years ago, offering fresh clues about dinosaurs in a region previously thought to have few traces of them. These footprints, found in sandy and muddy areas, tell stories of the dinosaurs’ daily lives and add excitement to our understanding of their world. As researchers continue to explore this area, they hope to uncover even more tracks, inspiring everyone to join the adventure of discovering the mysteries of our planet’s ancient past.