28/05/2026
ELIAS MOTSOALEDI LOCAL MUNICIPALITY ADOPTED 2026/2027 BUDGET AND IDP TO ACCELERATE SERVICE DELIVERY AND INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT
In a decisive step towards accelerating development and improving the living conditions of communities, Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality convened a Special Council Meeting in Groblersdal on Thursday, 28 May 2026, where Council officially adopted the 2026/2027 Annual Budget and Integrated Development Plan (IDP) following an extensive public consultation process.
The Special Council Sitting, chaired by Speaker of Council Councillor Junior Thethe, underscored the municipality’s commitment to responsive governance, sustainable development, financial accountability, and the delivery of quality services to communities across the municipality.
Presenting the budget priorities, Mayor Cllr David Tladi reaffirmed Council’s determination to intensify service delivery interventions, strengthen infrastructure development, stimulate local economic growth, and enhance governance systems to ensure effective and efficient utilisation of public resources.
The Mayor highlighted key priorities for the 2026/2027 financial year, which included the upgrading and maintenance of roads infrastructure, expansion of electricity support infrastructure, enhancement of revenue collection and financial sustainability, promotion of local economic development and job creation initiatives, and strengthening public participation and accountability mechanisms.
Among the major capital projects planned for implementation during the 2026/2027 financial year were:
• Upgrading of Tafelkop Bapeding Bus Route (MIG) – at contractor appointment stage.
• Upgrading of Waalkraal Bus Route (MIG) – under construction.
• Tambo/Elanddoorn Sports Stadium (MIG) – in the planning phase.
• Refurbishment of Groblersdal Landfill Site (MIG) – at implementation resumption stage.
In addition, twelve MIG-funded highmast lighting projects were being implemented across various communities to improve public safety and access to basic infrastructure.
The 2026/2027 budget provided for revenue of R854 million and expenditure of R842 million, resulting in a R12 million surplus. Expenditure was 4 per cent lower than the previous year due to reduced DoRA allocations.
Grants amounted to R460 million, reflecting a decrease of R96 million from the 2025/2026 financial year. Revenue increased by 2 per cent, while tariff and property rate increases remained aligned with CPI. Debt collection and revenue generation remained priorities.
Approved increases included 7.6 per cent for electricity and 3.4 per cent for property rates.
The operating budget amounted to R842 million, while the capital budget was R81 million, funded through the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG), Integrated National Electrification Programme (INEP), and internal funds.
Mayor Tladi further expressed appreciation to ward committees, traditional leaders, civil society organisations, community stakeholders, and municipal officials for their meaningful contribution throughout the IDP and budget consultation process.
Council reaffirmed its commitment to transparent governance, accountable leadership, and collaborative partnerships with communities in pursuit of sustainable development and an improved quality of life for all residents of Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality.
Issued by:
Communication Unit
Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality
