Minister Ramokgopa unveils R509 million budget to enhance government accountability

Minister Maropene Ramokgopa has announced a R509 million budget for the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) in a move aimed at bolstering government accountability and fostering economic growth, as she presented the budget to Parliament in Cape Town.

Supported by Deputy Minister Seiso Mohai, Minister Ramokgopa outlined the Department’s strengthened focus on implementing the National Development Plan (NDP) Vision 2030 and the recently approved Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) 2024–2029.

“Over the past few years, attempts have been made to strengthen the mandate of DPME through the Planning Bill. We are now shifting focus and considering a White Paper process which will enable us to clarify a cohort of questions that have been raised by various stakeholders within and outside of government,” said Minister Ramokgopa.

The MTDP 2024–2029, approved by Cabinet in February 2025, is already being rolled out. Its strategic priorities include driving inclusive economic growth and job creation, reducing poverty and addressing the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental state.

“Successful implementation of the MTDP must be demonstrated through the achievement of its set targets and improved living conditions of citizens. It is not enough to plan, we must see results, and we must be held accountable for those results,” she emphasised.

Minister Ramokgopa stressed the importance of aligning national, provincial, and local planning processes, starting with integration efforts in the Northern Cape.

She highlighted the Department’s pivotal role in reforming State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs). The National State Enterprises Bill (B1-2024) proposes a centralised shareholder model to improve governance and performance across SOEs.

A key focus for the DPME going forward is the implementation of a comprehensive Evidence Plan to strengthen research, evaluation, and data systems, supporting evidence-based policymaking.

“Our work must be backed by credible evidence, and that evidence must lead to impact. We are committed to building a state that listens, learns, and delivers measurable change,” said the Minister.

Highlighting the importance of partnerships, Minister Ramokgopa noted recent capacity-building workshops and ongoing engagements with Parliament, oversight institutions, and other stakeholders.

She also underscored South Africa’s leadership role as Chair of the G20 Development Working Group, prioritising financing for development, advancing social protection, and promoting global public goods.

Looking ahead, Minister Ramokgopa acknowledged the approaching end of the current NDP and confirmed that the National Planning Commission (NPC) has begun work on a new long-term plan for the country. This process will include inclusive National Dialogues to shape South Africa’s future vision.

The Minister concluded her address by inviting Parliament to endorse the Budget Vote and expressed gratitude to the Portfolio Committee, Deputy Minister Seiso Mohai, Director-General Dr. Robert Nkuna, and DPME staff.

The DPME reaffirmed its commitment to improving government performance and accountability.

“It is not enough to plan, we must see results, and we must be held accountable for those results,” Minister Ramokgopa reiterated.

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