MEC Basikopo Makamu is giving the COGHSTA Budget Speech.
On Tuesday, MEC Basikopo Makamu delivered the 2026/27 Budget Vote for the Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA) at the Limpopo Provincial Legislature in Lebowakgomo. Speaking to a province still recovering from recent natural disasters, Makamu laid out a plan focused on housing, dignity, and local government stability.
Funding the Future
The department has been allocated a total budget of R2.583 billion for the 2026/27 financial year. This is a slight increase of 0.38 percent from the previous year. The largest portion of this funding, R1.152 billion, is dedicated to Human Settlements. Administration received R462.221 million to ensure the department remains an efficient engine for service delivery.
Housing and Human Dignity
Makamu reported a major victory in housing, announcing that the department completed 4,532 quality units in the last year, shattering its original target of 2,923. For the new financial year, the department aims to deliver 2,474 BNG housing units and 1,690 serviced sites.
A key focus remains the eradication of unsafe mud houses, with 200 units planned for replacement this year. The MEC also highlighted the “Title Deeds Friday” program, which aims to register 1,700 title deeds to provide residents with legal security of tenure. He made a strong plea to beneficiaries not to sell their government-provided homes, calling the houses a “heritage” and a foundation for family wealth.
Responding to Disaster
The speech touched on the “Disaster of Catastrophic Proportions” caused by recent heavy rains. The floods destroyed 3,500 houses and severed 450 bridges and roads across the province. In response, the government is procuring 670 Temporary Residential Units to be stationed at district disaster centers for immediate deployment during future emergencies.
Strengthening Local Government and Traditions
The MEC praised the improvement in municipal audits, noting that 18 municipalities achieved unqualified opinions, up from 14 the previous year. To support traditional leadership, R20.3 million will be disbursed to qualifying traditional councils. The department also plans to continue constructing traditional council offices and providing vehicles for senior traditional leaders.
As the 7th Administration pushes forward, the COGHSTA budget serves as a roadmap for a more equitable Limpopo. By focusing on quality housing, infrastructure resilience, and transparent governance, the department aims to turn the “sleeping giant” of the province into a thriving reality for all its citizens.
MEC Basikopo Makamu and Head of Department, Dr Modjadji Malahlela ahead of the Budget Speech.