The municipality of eThekwini has allocated a large chunk of its 2013-14 budget to operating costs to ensure a continuous provision of services to its residents.
From the R33,7billion n purse, R5,4billion has been set aside for capital expenditure, while the rest (R8,3billion) will go to operating costs.
The R33,7billion budget is apparently aligned to the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) objectives that determined and prioritised people’s needs. Both the capital and operating expenditure allocations are not only to ensure that the municipality’s IDP outcomes were achieved, but also that the city’s vision of being Africa’s most caring and liveable city was realised.
The draft 2013-14 budget continues to support the government’s commitment to broaden service delivery and expand investment in infrastructure while taking into account the constrained fiscal environment. Despite the effects of the global recession on the economy, the municipality has managed to achieve a collection rate of 97.5%.
“eThekwini has one of the best service delivery programmes in Africa, ensuring that more than 75% of residents have access to basic services. Nationally, our municipality is used as a model for financial governance and is making great strides environmentally,” says eThekwini mayor, James Nxumalo.
He explains that several major infrastructure projects formed part of the strategic infrastructure projects, as announced by the government, included the second phase of the 55km western aqueduct pipeline, which is now under way.
“This project is expected to significantly strengthen the capacity of bulk water supply to the western regions, ultimately boosting water supply to the north of the city, the Aerotropolis, DubeTradePort, King Shaka International Airport, logistics hub development, dedicated rail and links, and Durban to Gauteng rail upgrades – all multibillion-rand projects that are key infrastructure developments of the provincial growth and development strategy.”