Johannesburg and KwaDukuza unveil 2026/27 budgets focusing on infrastructure

Johannesburg deputy executive mayor Loyiso Masuku tabled a R90 bn mid‑term budget for 2026/27, projecting R90.4 bn of operating revenue against R88.3 bn of expenditure and a R2.1 bn surplus before tax. The plan flags severe utility losses – non‑revenue water above 40% and electricity distribution losses at 27% – and a combined infrastructure renewal backlog exceeding R185 bn. Masuku also announced a €200 million loan from a German state‑owned development bank to support City Power’s pipeline.

In KwaDukuza, Mayor Siduduzo Gumede presented a R3.5 bn budget for the same financial year, stressing the renewal and maintenance of ageing roads, water and sanitation networks, electricity infrastructure and public facilities. The budget aims to balance service delivery, infrastructure renewal and economic development, building on recent upgrades, housing projects and local investment initiatives.