MEC Fufe Makatong
Kimberley
By: Lebogang Moeng
The Northern Cape Department of Roads and Public Works has tabled a bold and development-focused R2.282 billion budget for the 2025/26 financial year. Delivered by MEC BFP Makatong, the budget speech centered on inclusive growth, infrastructure expansion, climate resilience, and job creation across the province.
Framed during Mandela Month, the MEC reminded the legislature that “overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity; it is an act of justice.” With this moral foundation, she presented the budget as a tool to address the province’s structural inequalities through targeted investment.
Infrastructure Expansion to Boost Access and Economic Growth
A core priority in the 2025/26 budget is the upgrading of the provincial road network. The Department plans to upgrade over 61 km of gravel roads to surfaced roads and re-gravel 626 km, improving connectivity and rural mobility.
In partnership with SANRAL, 649 km of key provincial roads will be transferred for national maintenance, expanding on the 3,712 km transferred since 2004. These routes are critical for mining transport, border access, and tourism.
Strategic roadwork projects are advancing in the JTG district, Fraserburg-Williston, and the Sutherland-Middelpos corridors. The Department also continues work on surfacing, resealing, and rehabilitating roads across the province, including Mamathwane and Modderrivier.
Climate-Smart Construction to Address Environmental Challenges
Responding to recent flood damage, MEC Makatong announced a reprioritization of funds toward emergency repairs and climate-resilient infrastructure. The Department is investing in nano-technology, smart materials, and stabilizing agents to strengthen the durability of roads against extreme weather events.
“These innovations will help reduce long-term maintenance costs and ensure that our roads actively support the province’s sustainable development goals,” said the MEC.
Building Schools, Clinics, and Libraries to Uplift Communities
The budget also funds over 30 major social infrastructure projects to improve education, health, and cultural services.
Twelve school projects are currently under construction across the province. These include full-service primary and secondary schools, ECD centers, and sports courts. Highlights include:
- Bankhara-Bodulong Primary School: R124 million investment, 138 jobs
- Franciscus Intermediate School: R150 million, 120 jobs
- Kalahari and Calton Van Heerden Secondary Schools: Over R120 million each
In the health sector, upgrades are underway at Tshwaragano Hospital, Dr. Arthur Letele Depot, and Schmidtsdrift Clinic, creating over 300 jobs.
The Department is also supporting cultural upliftment with the construction of a new library in Galeshewe (R42 million) and upgrades to the Mayibuye Centre.
Expanded Public Works Programme Delivers Jobs and Skills
The EPWP continues to serve as a major platform for employment and empowerment. In 2024/25, the Department created 10,977 work opportunities, exceeding its target by 4%.
In 2025/26, an additional 3,433 work opportunities will be created through Root Out the Dust, poverty relief, and infrastructure maintenance, supported by a R4.5 million national incentive grant.
Municipal EPWP targets reflect a broader provincial impact, with over 21,000 positions funded and a projected R1.264 billion investment across infrastructure, environment, and social development sectors.
Empowering Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities
The Department is expanding its empowerment programs through training and enterprise development. In 2024/25:
- 187 participants were trained in trades like electrical work, health & safety, and road maintenance.
- 108 of the trainees were women, highlighting the focus on gender inclusion.
- 50 persons with disabilities completed the New Venture Creation Program.
For 2025/26, a further 170 training interventions are planned, backed by over R5.6 million in SETA grants. These will include entrepreneurship development and the expansion of disability-friendly enterprise programs to all districts.
The Entrepreneurship Development Program for Female Contractors helped 49 women earn credits toward national construction qualifications, paving the way for long-term participation in infrastructure delivery.
Property Disposal for Economic Inclusion
The Department has revised its Disposal Policy for Immovable Assets, unlocking economic value from over 13,000 hectares of vacant land and 33 derelict buildings. New models like the Renovate, Operate, and Transfer (ROT) approach aim to attract private sector participation while ensuring access for historically disadvantaged communities.
Financial Challenges in Property Rates
A major funding gap remains in property rates and taxes, with a R16 million shortfall projected for 2025/26 and R700 million in arrears. The MEC called for urgent collaboration between Provincial Treasury, SALGA, and municipalities to establish a sustainable, market-aligned solution.
Looking Ahead: A Province Built on Justice and Progress
MEC Makatong closed her address with a strong call to action: “This budget reaffirms our dedication to building a capable state that is centered on the needs of the people, focused on the future, and responsive to the challenges of our time.”
With a budget shaped by justice, inclusion, and development, the Northern Cape is laying the groundwork for a more resilient and equitable future.
