eThekwini approves R74.7bn draft budget for 2026/27

By Lebone Rodah Mosima

The eThekwini Municipality has approved a R74.7 billion draft budget for the 2026/27 financial year following public consultation.

eThekwini mayor Cyril Xaba tabled the draft budget before council on Tuesday.

The budget comprises R68.8 billion in operational expenditure and R5.9 billion for capital projects, underpinned by financial sustainability, realistic revenue projections, and improved service delivery and infrastructure.

The municipality said it is advancing reforms in trading services, including water, sanitation and electricity, supported by a R1.1 billion allocation to enhance efficiency, revenue collection and infrastructure reliability.

Infrastructure investment remains a priority, with funding directed towards wastewater upgrades, water loss reduction, electricity networks, housing, transport and road rehabilitation.

Plans are also in place to relocate flood-affected communities to permanent housing in Cornubia.

On supply chain management, the municipality reported that more than 80% of service providers met expected performance standards, with a smaller proportion rated outstanding. Underperforming