What Happened
On Wednesday, 25 February 2026, President Cyril Ramaphosa will attend the National Budget Speech in Parliament, Cape Town, at 14h00. The speech will be delivered by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, who will outline the government’s financial plans for the upcoming year. This Budget Speech follows the President’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), where key policy priorities were established.
Why It Matters
The 2026 Budget Speech is significant as it sets the financial framework for the government’s priorities and funding strategies. Unlike the previous year, where the budget faced multiple attempts for approval, it is anticipated that the 2026 budget will receive support from the parties in the Government of National Unity (GNU) and be adopted by the legislature without delay. This reflects a shift in political dynamics and a commitment to fiscal responsibility.
What’s Next
As the budget is presented, it will address critical issues stemming from past financial challenges, including the impact of state capture, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ongoing global economic uncertainties. The government aims to stabilize public debt and foster economic growth, with expectations of a declining budget deficit in the medium term. The outcomes of this budget will be closely monitored by stakeholders and the public alike.
