Minister Simmers tables R9.86 billion budget to accelerate infrastructure delivery towards a future Western Cape together
Media Release by Western Cape Minister of Infrastructure Tertuis Simmers
Western Cape Minister of Infrastructure Tertuis Simmers today tabled a R9.86 billion budget for the 2026/27 financial year, centering on a bold "acceleration" agenda designed to future-proof the province. Built on four strategic pillars, namely, partnership, finance, delivery, and innovation, the budget outlines a clear roadmap to navigate fiscal constraints while realising a R132 billion long-term Western Cape Single Infrastructure Project Pipeline.
A cornerstone of the announcement is the establishment of the Western Cape Infrastructure Facility, which will reduce provincial reliance on national grants. This facility is designed to unlock new funding models and move shovel-ready projects at the speed for the private sector, ensuring that delivery remains immune to national fiscal volatility.
Other key announcements include the Western Cape Department of Infrastructure’s (DOI) efforts towards the establishment of a Provincial Housing Advisory Panel, which will bring together expertise from the public sector, private sector and built-environment professions to support better planning, faster decision-making and improved project implementation. The DOI is also working on advancing the proclamation of the Western Cape Housing Development Act, 2018, which contains important provisions to improve the acquisition, release and use of land for housing development. The regulations required for implementation are already in draft form, and this work is continuing at pace.
Significant budget allocations include R4.56 billion for transport infrastructure to upgrade and expand the provincial road network, and over R2 billion for human settlements.
Minister Simmers emphasised that the Western Cape Infrastructure Framework 2050 serves as the guiding blueprint for every rand spent. The department is also integrating modern technology, including the launch of the Roads4U reporting app and the upcoming EVE chatbot, ensuring infrastructure management is proactive rather than reactive.
Minister Simmers said, “This R9.86 billion budget is about more than just infrastructure; it is about the acceleration of dignity and opportunity for every citizen of the Western Cape. Through the establishment of the Western Cape Infrastructure Facility and our commitment to strategic partnerships, we are ensuring that every rand spent today builds a resilient, prosperous province for tomorrow. We are not merely managing the present; we are actively constructing our 2050 vision.”
Following the budget proceedings, Minister Simmers joined representatives from First National Bank (FNB) for a title deed handover ceremony. This partnership facilitates the transfer of full, legal ownership to homeowners by using housing subsidies to settle outstanding loan balances for distressed customers. This initiative underscores the "partnership" pillar of the budget, moving beyond the physical construction of houses to the restoration of dignity through secure property ownership.
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Media Enquiries:
Melt Botes
Spokesperson to Provincial Minister Tertuis Simmers
Email: Melchior.Botes@westerncape.gov.za
Tel: 021 483 8067
Cell: 082 431 0068
Celeste Nell
Acting Head of Communications
Western Cape Department of Infrastructure
Email: Celeste.Nell@westernscape.gov.za
Tel: 021 483 4819
