#GPBudget: Gauteng increases budget by R4bn in response to COVID-19

The Gauteng Provincial Government has taken decisive action in response to the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, the Special Adjustment Budget was tabled, revealing an increase of R4 billion to strengthen frontline services and provide a much-needed boost to the economy. Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, the MEC of Finance and e-Government for Gauteng, shared insights on the allocation of these additional funds in a recent interview with CNBC Africa. The budget adjustment represents a significant shift from the initial allocation of R142 billion for the 2020/2021 financial year to an updated total of R246.4 billion. This substantial increase is a direct response to the heightened demands brought about by the pandemic, as resources are redirected towards combatting the various challenges faced by the province. One of the key areas of focus for the reallocation of funds is the COVID-19 response, with specific allocations earmarked for essential initiatives. Nkomo-Ralehoko outlined a breakdown of the allocations, highlighting key areas where the additional budget will make a difference. In the health sector, a total of R2.1 billion has been prioritized to support the implementation of phases one and two of the response plan, as well as address human resource capacity requirements. This substantial investment underscores the province's commitment to bolstering its healthcare infrastructure in the face of the pandemic. Education also emerges as a crucial sector of focus, with R5.2 billion allocated to ensure compliance with regulations for the safe reopening of schools. This includes provisions for catch-up programs, as well as resources for screening, social distancing, hygiene, and sanitization measures within educational institutions. Furthermore, social development initiatives have been allocated R257.6 million to procure personal protective equipment (PPE), expand food distribution programs, and provide shelter for the homeless population. The province aims to offer sustainable solutions for vulnerable communities, particularly in light of the economic strain caused by the pandemic. Community safety remains a top priority, with an allocation of R47.5 million set aside to support community patrollers and provide overtime pay for law enforcement officers deployed during the lockdown period. These measures are essential in ensuring public safety and adherence to lockdown regulations. The Department of Sports, Arts, Culture, and Recreation will receive R79.4 million, with a focus on providing relief funds to support artists and professionals who have suffered economic losses due to the pandemic. The province recognizes the significant impact on the creative industry and is committed to providing much-needed assistance. A substantial portion of the budget, amounting to R5.9 million, is dedicated to health infrastructure projects, including facility refurbishments and the procurement of essential medical equipment. These investments are crucial in enhancing the capacity of the healthcare system to respond effectively to the ongoing health crisis. In addition, the province has allocated R250 million to support small and micro-enterprises and foster partnerships with the private sector. These initiatives aim to promote economic growth and create opportunities for local businesses to thrive amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic. MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko emphasized the importance of stringent measures to ensure accountability and transparency in the allocation of funds. She highlighted the province's commitment to effective oversight and compliance with regulations to guarantee that the funds reach their intended beneficiaries. In conclusion, the Gauteng Provincial Government's decision to increase the budget by R4 billion reflects a proactive approach to addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by COVID-19. By strategically reallocating resources and prioritizing key sectors, the province aims to strengthen its response to the pandemic and support the economic recovery efforts in the region.