Gauteng Allocates R1.9 Billion to Expand Digital Government Services
Gauteng Allocates R1.9 Billion to Expand Digital Government Services. The Gauteng Department of e-Government has been allocated R1.9 billion for the 2026/27 financial year to accelerate digital transformation across the province, with funding earmarked for modernising government technology systems, expanding broadband connectivity, strengthening cybersecurity and improving access to online public services.
The investment forms part of the province’s broader strategy to improve service delivery through technology while expanding digital access in communities across Gauteng.
A significant portion of the funding will be directed towards upgrading information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure and extending the Gauteng Provincial Network (GPN). The department plans to build and connect 300 GPN sites, bringing broadband connectivity to schools, healthcare facilities, libraries and community centres, particularly in townships, informal settlements and hostels.
The department also plans to continue developing the Gauteng Digital Platform as a central access point for government services. Existing digital platforms, including the e-Recruitment System and the Gauteng Matric App, will also receive further enhancements as part of the modernisation programme.
Another priority is the expansion of the province’s e-Indigent Register System. The system has already been implemented in Mogale City, Rand West City Local Municipality and Merafong City Local Municipality. According to the department, implementation in Midvaal, Lesedi and Emfuleni local municipalities is nearing completion.
Following consultations and system assessments, the department intends extending the platform to metropolitan municipalities, including the City of Johannesburg, City of Tshwane and City of Ekurhuleni.
To encourage residents to make greater use of digital government services, 75 e-Ambassadors will be appointed to assist citizens in accessing online government platforms and digital services.
The department is also continuing to expand technology used for public safety through its e-Policing Programme. It reported that 960 CCTV cameras have already been installed across Gauteng, while more than 184,000 e-Panic Buttons have been distributed to strengthen emergency response capabilities and community safety.
Developing digital skills remains another key focus area. During the financial year, the department plans to train 5,500 government officials, award 70 ICT bursaries and provide experiential learning opportunities for 100 young people. In addition, 12,000 youth are expected to participate in the Action Lab Programme, while 200 township-based ICT entrepreneurs will receive skills development, mentorship and innovation support.
Young innovators will also participate in the Youth Tech Expo G13 Hackathon Series, where participants will develop technology-based solutions aimed at addressing challenges such as crime, unemployment, education, healthcare and service delivery.
The budget further supports the province’s e-waste management programme, which promotes the responsible disposal, recycling and repurposing of electronic equipment to support environmental sustainability and job creation.
Cybersecurity and digital resilience remain central to the department’s plans, with continued investment in governance frameworks, security monitoring and systems designed to protect government data and digital services.
