In a decisive budget vote speech delivered at the Gauteng Legislature on Thursday, Premier Panyaza Lesufi laid out the administration’s strategic priorities for the province, underlining a commitment to economic recovery, infrastructure development, and addressing the pressing social challenges facing residents.
“Last week, we held a two-day Lekgotla of the Government of Provincial Unity to shape and sharpen our shared vision for Gauteng, our beautiful province,” Lesufi began.
Joined by all Executive Mayors of the municipalities, the meeting aimed to unify the province’s leadership across political lines to tackle crime, corruption, and socio-economic disparities.
The premier’s speech, delivered before an audience of dignitaries, officials, and political leaders, emphasised the urgency of addressing urban challenges, particularly in Johannesburg’s Central Business District (CBD), which has recently faced heightened concerns over safety and infrastructure degradation.
“We committed ourselves to improve our Townships, Informal Settlements, and Hostels together with our CBDs, starting with the Johannesburg CBD,” Lesufi stated, underscoring the need for tangible improvements in living conditions and public safety.
Lesufi also highlighted the significance of job creation, particularly for the youth, as a pivotal aspect of the province’s economic strategy.
He said, “We also agreed to end urban hunger by creating new job opportunities for our citizens, particularly our youth.”
This initiative aligns with the administration’s ongoing efforts to stimulate economic growth points across Gauteng, as detailed in the GGT2030 blueprint.
The premier acknowledged the cooperation of various political parties in advancing the province’s development goals, praising the involvement of opposition groups like Action SA, ACDP, and Freedom Front Plus, and other parties who agreed to form a constructive atmosphere.
“We appreciate the posture taken by Action SA, ACDP, Freedom Front Plus, and other political parties to be constructive opponents but joint builders of our future,” Lesufi remarked, emphasising the importance of collaborative governance.
With a budget allocation of R671 million for the 2024/25 financial year, Lesufi outlined plans to prioritise essential services and infrastructure projects while making necessary budget cuts to adapt to fiscal constraints.
“The Budget Committee has taken radical steps to scale down various projects, particularly internal events, to accommodate priorities identified by the 6th Administration,” he explained, noting the reallocation of R172 million within goods and services to ensure departmental performance targets are met.
Lesufi also addressed the ongoing impact of the Life Esidimeni tragedy, reaffirming the government’s commitment to finalising all claims by the end of the 2025/26 financial year.
“The judgement on Life Esidimeni should serve as a lesson to all of us to respect and protect the rights of the weak and vulnerable in our society,” Lesufi said, indicating plans for a commemorative monument as a solemn reminder of the incident.
In closing, Premier Lesufi expressed gratitude to the members of the Provincial Legislature and the parties within the Government of Provincial Unity.
“I believe all the parties did so out of a deep conviction that together we can work for a stable and enduring provincial government which focuses on the needs of the residents of our province,” he concluded.
As Gauteng prepares for the upcoming State of the Province Address, set for 15 August 2024 in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni, the premier’s speech will set the tone for a renewed focus on delivering meaningful change and fostering inclusive growth in South Africa’s economic heartland.
SOURCED FROM THE GPG WEBSITE.
