On May 28, 2025, the City of Johannesburg took a significant step forward in its commitment to building a more equitable and sustainable future. The city’s Finance Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC), Councillor Margaret Arnolds, unveiled an ambitious budget of R83.1 billion for the 2025/26 fiscal year, aimed at transforming the landscape of service delivery and infrastructure in the municipality.
This expansive budget allocates R75.7 billion for ongoing operational services, while R7.4 billion is earmarked for long-term capital investments. The focus areas are designed to uplift and empower the city’s most vulnerable residents while ensuring essential services across all neighbourhoods.
Infrastructure enhancements in underserved areas
A substantial portion of the budget is dedicated to critical upgrades in infrastructure, especially in informal settlements that have long suffered from inadequate services. This includes significant investments in:
Upgrading facilities in informal settlements
Expanding electrification initiatives to ensure reliable power supply
Constructing new housing units to accommodate the growing population
Councillor Arnolds stated that these investments are necessary to improve the quality of life for residents, particularly in underprivileged areas. “Our commitment is not just about numbers; it’s about making tangible changes in the lives of our people,” she affirmed.
Social support and community development
The budget demonstrates a strong commitment to social inclusion, with dedicated funding for programmes aimed at supporting marginalised groups, including women, children, the elderly, and the LGBTQIA+ community. “Every community member deserves our attention and support,” Arnolds highlighted during her speech, reinforcing the city’s goal to leave no one behind.
Updated tariffs to sustain service delivery
To uphold and enhance the quality of services, the City of Johannesburg will implement moderate tariff adjustments. The specific increases are as follows:
Property rates: up by 4.85%
Electricity: increased by 7.47%
Water and sanitation: raised by 9.75%
Refuse removal: increased by 5%
These adjustments are a response to external pricing pressures stemming from regulatory obligations and increased costs from service providers like Rand Water. Councillor Arnolds assured residents that the city is cognisant of the impact of these increases and is actively developing support systems for those most vulnerable, including pensioners and child-headed households.
A community-driven approach
In her address, Arnolds emphasised that the budget was crafted with significant input from residents through Integrated Development Plan (IDP) engagements. “This is not just a city budget; it is a community’s budget,” she remarked, reflecting the city’s dedication to involving citizens in crucial decision-making processes.
For residents wishing to delve deeper into the budget’s particulars, full details are available on the city’s official platforms, including a complete video of the speech.
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