FS Budget offers hope and renewal

By Emily Setona

BLOEMFONTEIN – In a stirring address during the Free State’s budget speech, MEC for Destea and Finance, Ketso Makume, delivered an inspiring message of hope amid economic challenges.

Speaking on 18 March at Fourth Raadsaal, Makume called for unity and resilience, reminding listeners that “behind the clouds, the sun is still shining.”

Delivered during Human Rights Month, Makume’s speech highlighted hope as an active force for change. Citing Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s words – “Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness” – he emphasized a steadfast commitment to progress. His assertion, “Ithemba alibulali” (hope does not kill), reinforced the budget as more than a financial plan but a blueprint for a brighter future.

Key Budget Allocations

Makume’s budget outlines strategic investments across key sectors to stimulate growth, improve service delivery, and uplift communities:

• Education: Over R59 billion across the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), including R18.8 billion in 2025/26, R19.6 billion in 2026/27, and R20.4 billion in 2027/28. Funds will enhance public schools, early childhood development, and teacher training.

• Health: More than R44.3 billion over the MTEF period, with R14.1 billion in 2025/26, increasing to R15.4 billion in 2027/28, ensuring accessible quality healthcare.

• Social Development: R4.2 billion to combat gender-based violence, support community nutrition centres, and protect vulnerable populations.

• Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation: Over R2 billion to nurture creativity, preserve cultural heritage, and promote community sports and recreation.

• Public Works and Infrastructure: R7.1 billion for government building improvements, township road networks, and critical infrastructure projects.

• Community Safety, Roads, and Transport: R10.3 billion to maintain provincial roads, enhance public transport, and improve road safety.

• Agriculture and Rural Development: R2.7 billion to support farmers, invest in rural infrastructure, and promote sustainable agriculture.

• Human Settlements: Nearly R3.7 billion to upgrade informal settlements and expand sustainable housing initiatives.

• Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs: R2.1 billion to support eco-tourism, enterprise development, and environmental management.

• Office of the Premier: R1.9 billion to drive innovation hubs, youth programs, and community development.

• Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs: R1.3 billion to support municipal recovery, disaster management, and integrated service delivery.

• Provincial Treasury and Legislature: R1.1 billion and R1 billion respectively, ensuring streamlined governance and fiscal discipline.

Makume’s budget, set against fiscal constraints and global uncertainties, carries a strong message of optimism. By strategically directing funds into essential social and economic infrastructure, the Free State government aims to foster resilience and long-term prosperity.

His appeal – “Walk with us as we navigate this difficult terrain” – underscored the importance of unity, perseverance, and a clear vision for the future. Makume’s commitment to ensuring every citizen benefits from these investments paints a picture of a province determined to rise above adversity.

As Free Staters look ahead, Makume’s words – echoing the wisdom of Desmond Tutu – serve as a reminder that hope is the spark that lights the way. The budget’s balance of immediate relief and long-term development stands as a beacon of promise, positioning the Free State to emerge stronger and shine brightly in the years to come.