​Lerato Mailoane
The Gauteng Provincial Government has significantly increased its commitment to combating crime with a robust financial injection totalling R2.3 billion for the 2024/25 fiscal year and R7.2 billion allocated over the 2024 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF).
Addressing lawmakers at the Legislature on Tuesday, Finance MEC Jacob Mamamolo said the allocation's focus includes bolstering law enforcement capabilities through various initiatives.
The funds will support Crime Prevention Wardens, enhance aerial surveillance with helicopters and drones, fortify the Provincial Integrated Command Centre, support community policing initiatives, combat Gender-Based Violence (GBV), and address crimes against children through the GBV Response Plan.
Moreover, the funds will go towards crime prevention programmes to foster safer communities.
The announcement follows Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi's State of the Province Address in February, in which he announced that the provincial government will continue to increase budgetary provisions to tackle crime.
He also took the opportunity to welcome the appointment of Gauteng Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Tommy Mthombeni, on 01 March 2024.
"The provincial government looks forward to working with Lieutenant-General Mthombeni to increase crime-fighting efforts, particularly in townships, informal settlements, and hostels (TISH) areas, and stamp out lawlessness and vandalism in Gauteng."
To augment safety in townships, a substantial allocation of R50 million for 2024/25 and R111.4 million over the 2024 MTEF has been earmarked for installing CCTV cameras in crime hotspots within Township Improvement Schemes and Housing (TISH) areas. 
In addition, in line with Premier Lesufi's initiatives, R10 million has been set aside to facilitate the rollout of e-Panic buttons, further fortifying community safety measures.
Meanwhile, Mamabolo allocated R64.8 billion for the current fiscal year and R202.7 billion over the MTEF to the Gauteng Department of Health.
This allocation underscores the government's commitment to implementing health and wellness interventions, mainly targeting TISH areas. 
Addressing the legislature, MEC Mamabolo allocated most of the budget to the social cluster, encompassing the health, education, and social development departments. 
He emphasised the pivotal role of education, health, and social services in enhancing the quality of life for Gauteng residents, allocating 83 per cent of the 2024 
MTEF budget to these critical sectors.
To enhance the healthcare system and the well-being of residents, a total of R14.2 billion has been allocated in the 2024/25 financial year and R43.4 billion over the 2024 MTEF. 
These funds will go towards broadening access to quality public healthcare, Primary Health Care re-engineering, extension of 24-hour services at Community Health Centres and reduction of radiation oncology backlog in facilities.
He also acknowledged the challenges young unemployed doctors face and assured full attention to addressing their concerns.
"We assure doctors that this matter is receiving full attention. The Department of Health will ensure that this matter is addressed. The MEC of Health and Wellness will provide updates on this issue from time to time."