KwaZulu-Natal Premier announces targeted interventions following Auditor-General's report

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has said targeted interventions will be implemented after the Auditor-General's report raised concerns about the performance of government departments and their ability to manage finances.

The audit findings for the province on government departments and entities for the 2024/25 financial year was tabled in the KZN Legislature on Friday.

Ntuli welcomed the release of the Auditor-General of South Africa’s (AGSA) 2024–2025 report, which he said affirms a sustained trend of clean and unqualified audit outcomes across provincial departments and public entities.

"The consistent clean audit outcomes achieved by my office, the Provincial Treasury, and several other departments and entities confirm that we have established a solid foundation of financial discipline and good governance. This is a commendable milestone and sets a clear platform for the new administration to build upon," said Ntuli.

Despite the overall positive audit outcomes, the Premier expressed concern regarding the performance of high-impact auditees—departments and entities tasked with delivering essential public services in sectors such as education, transport, and health.

“While improvements in financial reporting are encouraging, they must be matched by tangible results in service delivery. It is unacceptable that institutions with the most direct impact on citizens' lives and government expenditure have not yet institutionalised the strict financial and compliance disciplines required for excellence,” the Premier stated.

“Good audits alone are not enough. They must translate into quality, reliable services for the people of KwaZulu-Natal.”

To address these challenges decisively, Ntuli announced a series of targeted interventions aimed at reinforcing accountability and driving performance across the provincial administration:

1. Elevating Oversight to Cabinet LevelThe Provincial Audit Committee will now report directly to the Provincial Cabinet. Its reports will become a standing item on the Cabinet agenda, ensuring executive oversight and swift action on audit findings.

2. Linking Audit Outcomes to Performance ContractsAudit results will directly inform the performance agreements of Accounting Officers and Directors-General. “There will be consequences—both positive and negative. Accountability will no longer be optional,” the Premier affirmed.

3. Strengthening the Accountability EcosystemThe Premier called on all stakeholders—including local government, the Legislature, and public entities—to collaborate in fostering a culture rooted in performance, transparency, and accountability.

Ntuli acknowledged systemic risks that continue to hinder performance and service delivery. He cited specific examples from the report:

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