17 Mar 2024

North West District Council has approved a recurrent budget of over P291.7 million (P291, 721, 251) for the 2024/25 financial year.

Addressing a special council meeting recently, finance and work committee chairperson, Councillor Ntlogelang Kebonyekgotla said the largest share of the recurrent budget would cater for personnel emoluments with a total allocation of 48 per cent of the total budget.

“Despite the fact that the budget is highly skewed towards financing of personnel emoluments, the council will strive to provide for its targeted priorities and we hope that the awaited developmental budget will cover a significant number of projects aimed at transforming the livelihoods of our communities,” Cllr Kebonyekgotla said.

He also indicated that the largest share of the 2024/25 recurrent budget would also cover employees’ salaries, members’ salaries, overtime allowance, employer’s pension contribution and members’ funeral benefit, among others.

“The special expenses will take the second largest share of the budget at an amount of P73 583 347 representing 25 per cent of the total budget and it will cover inter alia relief of destitute, security services, school stationery and equipment, food and accommodation, and payment for refuse contract,” he said.  

For his part the council chairperson, Cllr Itumeleng Kelebetseng emphasised the importance of prudent financial management and striking a balance between meeting the essential needs and maintaining fiscal responsibility.

“There is need to take into action the motions that have been raised and to make the necessary initiative so as we fail trying rather than being knocked down without even trying thus setting a sustainable path for the future growth and development of our communities,” he said. Cllr Kebonyemodisa Ramolapo for Bombadi-Thito ward advised the income generating committee to convene and explore other ways of creating revenue for the council such as abattoirs.

Meanwhile, the special council meeting was held to deliberate on the recurrent financial budget for the year 2024/25. 

The meeting saw council members engaging in robust discussions and strategic planning to ensure the fiscal health and stability of the district. ENDS