Mabuyane trims Premier’s budget as youth fund and broadband plans take a hit

By Thapelo Molefe

Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane has tabled a tighter R1.5 billion budget for the Office of the Premier, with key programmes facing cuts and funding shifts that could impact youth development and digital expansion plans.

Presenting the 2026/27 policy and budget speech on Wednesday, Mabuyane said the allocation had declined from about R1.6 billion in the previous financial year, forcing the provincial government to reprioritise spending.

Among the most notable changes is a significant reduction in Programme Three, which has been cut by 11.5% due to the absence of funding for the Isiqalo Youth Fund in the current allocation cycle.

The fund, which supports young entrepreneurs, has been a flagship initiative of the provincial government. Mabuyane said 50 enterprises had already been funded, with a target of 60 businesses to receive support worth R40 million.

However, the funding gap raises questions about the sustainability and future expansion