​Thabo Bodibe 
Gauteng Finance and Economic Development MEC Lebohang Maile has committed to supporting the City of Tshwane Municipality in stabilising its finances.
On Monday, 29 October 2024, MEC Maile met with the Executive Mayor of the City of Tshwane, Dr Nasiphi Moya, and senior officials. 
Addressing the media, MEC Maile highlighted the need for continuity in service delivery and emphasised that stability is crucial to fostering positive change within communities.
"The council's programme of action must assure the people of Tshwane that service delivery is the primary agenda, " said Maile. 
He stressed the importance of stringent cost-saving measures and fiscal prudence, advising a reduction in non-essential or delayed programs.
In response, the executive mayor assured the provincial government of the city's commitment to empowering historically disadvantaged communities. 
In this light, Moya said the administration will consult with communities and make some changes to the adopted 2024/2025 budget.
The City of Tshwane's debtor's book is R24.340 billion as of 30 September 2024, increasing from R22.700 billion per pre-audited figures for the 2024/24 financial year. 
Households account for the majority of this debt at R17.7 billion (72.8%), followed by commercial businesses at R5.8 billion (23.9%). 
At the same time, the city's outstanding creditors amounted to R11.195 billion, a rise from R6.718 billion in the previous financial report.
Bulk electricity has increased by almost R1 billion, whilst bulk water has reduced significantly. 
Maile said this indicates that the credit control policy implementation is ineffective. 
"This has a negative impact on the liquidity of the municipality. Trade creditors increased by almost R4 billion, mainly the current account due by the end of October 2024. "
The MEC also expressed concern over non-compliance with Section 65.2(e) of the Municipal Finance Management Act, adding that the reported balance does not align with financial data from the municipality's systems.
The provincial governments will continue to monitor the situation and provide technical support through various intergovernmental structures.
In the future, Gauteng Treasury will also work closely with the municipality to address outstanding balances with Eskom and, where necessary, mediate disputes and facilitate payment agreements to protect both parties' interests.