Mahikeng: The North West Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) has announced significant advancements in the execution and expenditure of the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG), showcasing meaningful progress in infrastructure delivery throughout the province.
According to South African Government News Agency, the department disclosed that the province was allocated a total of R2.19 billion in MIG for the 2025/26 financial year, with the entire annual allocation being disbursed to municipalities. MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs Gaoage Oageng Molapisi reported that municipalities had collectively spent R1.3 billion by the end of March, which equates to 64% of the total allocation.
Molapisi expressed satisfaction with the expenditure outcomes, highlighting that it signifies ongoing investment in essential infrastructure such as water and sanitation, roads, stormwater systems, waste management, and community facilities. These investments are pivotal in enhancing service delivery and the quality of life for residents across the province. He stated, “The progress recorded demonstrates that municipalities are increasingly improving their capacity to deliver critical infrastructure. We remain on course to ensure 100% expenditure of funds allocated after achieving 99% last financial year.”
The report further notes that several municipalities have shown robust performance in infrastructure spending and project implementation, notably in districts such as Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, where expenditure reached 82% of allocated funds, indicating enhanced planning and execution capabilities.
To further expedite infrastructure projects within their jurisdictions, additional funding has been designated to six municipalities, including Kgetleng Rivier (R15 million), Maquassi Hills (R16 million), Ditsobotla (R37 million), Ratlou (R17 million), Lekwa Teemane (R12 million), Greater Taung (R19 million), and Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District (R50 million).
However, Molapisi acknowledged that some municipalities have forfeited parts of their allocations to other municipalities due to sluggish spending and implementation challenges. In instances where performance remains subpar, swift action is deemed necessary to safeguard public funds.
“While reallocation may affect project timelines in underperforming municipalities, the measure is intended to improve overall delivery rather than penalise those affected. The lost portions will impact the ongoing infrastructure projects implemented by the affected municipalities. Planned completion dates will now be prolonged into the new financial year,” Molapisi explained.
The MEC emphasized that these measures aim to enhance performance rather than punish municipalities. “The reallocation is to ensure 100% expenditure of the grant in the province. When funds are reallocated, it is done to maximise impact and ensure that infrastructure delivery continues without delays,” he added.
As preparations for the 2026/27 municipal financial year commence, the department has been aiding municipalities in evaluating draft implementation plans to ensure they align with grant conditions, infrastructure priorities, and the Division of Revenue Act. This initiative aims to bolster long-term infrastructure planning, address stalled projects, and improve sustainable service delivery.
Molapisi also announced plans to host a provincial MIG workshop before the new financial year to assess municipalities’ readiness for implementing MIG-funded infrastructure projects. “The aim is to ensure that municipalities finalise the appointment by end June 2026 so that construction can commence at the beginning of the financial year in July 2026.”