The announcement came during Wednesday's parliamentary budget speech, marking cautious recovery for Africa's most developed economy. Total 2026/27 budget reaches 2.67 trillion rand ($168 billion), reflecting improved fiscal positioning.
Debt trajectory reverses after prolonged climb; stabilisation continues into coming years per Godongwana. November S&P sovereign upgrade represented first major lift in over 16 years, alongside removal from global financial watchdog's grey list.
Godongwana highlighted these developments as "signals of restored credibility, of renewed resilience." Persistent violent crime averaging ~60 daily murders prompted significant security spending boost.
Peace and security allocation rises to 291.2 billion rand ($18 billion) by 2028, funding army deployments alongside police patrols in crime hotspots. This addresses ongoing challenges despite broader economic stabilisation.
Government balances fiscal consolidation with targeted infrastructure and social priorities. Debt stabilisation creates breathing room for sustained growth while maintaining market confidence.