Arnolds Promises a Better Johannesburg in Budget Speech

Seeks to correct past setbacks, promote accountability and drive urban development

By Staff Reporter

City of Johannesburg Finance MMC Margaret Arnolds (above) delivered her maiden Budget Speech, last Wednesday     Photo: Trans Pawa Media

The City of Johannesburg unveiled its People's Budget for the 2025/26 financial year, committing billions of rand towards revitalising the city's ageing and critical infrastructure.

Presenting the budget, the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Finance, Councillor Margaret Arnolds, announced a total allocation of R89.4 billion. This includes operating revenue of R84.8 billion, operating expenditure of R80.7 billion, and a projected surplus of R4.1 billion (before taxation and capital grants). The capital budget stands at R8.7 billion, with a R26.2 billion investment projected over the medium term.Councillor Arnolds stressed that this budget is focused on service delivery, not delays. “We are investing in Johannesburg's future and building a city that works for all its residents," she said.Key allocations include:

• R25.6 billion for electricity

• R20 billion for water and wastewater services

• R18.1 billion for property rates

• R3.3 billion for refuse removal

• R6.4 billion for maintenance and repairs

• R3 billion for underserved areas in regions A, F, and G

• R2.4 billion for the Lufhereng Mixed-Use Housing Development

• R1.4 billion for Southern Farms and Goudrand Mega Developments

• R869 million over three years for informal settlement formalisation

• R59 million for public employment and grants

• R16 million for the JMPD Smart Surveillance (IIOC) project

This budget seeks to correct past setbacks, promote accountability, and drive urban development while ensuring sustainability and economic growth. Safety is also a key focus area, as the City continues to address crime and law enforcement challenges.Councillor Arnolds emphasised that this is not a survival budget. “It's a budget for progress—designed to improve spatial planning, promote inclusivity, and ensure that no community is left behind."By prioritising infrastructure investment, the City of Johannesburg aims to reaffirm its position as South Africa's economic hub and a leading city on the global stage.

Additional Info By: Joburg.org.za