The Gauteng Department of e-Government has secured an allocation of R1.9 billion for the 2026/27 financial year to drive the province's digital transformation agenda and enhance government service delivery. This significant funding allocation shows the provincial government's commitment to leveraging technology for improved public services. The funding aims to modernize information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure, expand digital government services, and strengthen cybersecurity within Gauteng. The department will also utilize the funds to improve digital resilience, support ICT skills development, enhance e-waste management, and establish a dedicated Artificial Intelligence (AI) Office, all contributing to a more digitally advanced province. This full approach is designed to advance the province's digital transformation agenda and improve the overall efficiency and accessibility of government services.
Expanding Digital Access and Platforms
The Gauteng Department of e-Government intends to build and connect 300 Gauteng Provincial Network (GPN) sites as part of its infrastructure expansion. This initiative is key for extending connectivity and ensuring reliable digital infrastructure across the province. The department will also continue developing the Gauteng Digital Platform, which is envisioned as a unified access point for various government services. This platform aims to streamline citizen interaction with government, making services more accessible and user-friendly.
Efforts to establish a provincial e-Indigent Register System are progressing steadily, with implementation already completed in Mogale City, Rand West City Local Municipality, and Merafong City Local Municipality. This system is designed to identify and support indigent households, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance. The development of this vital system is nearing completion in Midvaal, Lesedi, and Emfuleni local municipalities, further extending its reach. Looking ahead, the department plans to further expand the e-Indigent Register System to include metropolitan municipalities, such as the City of Johannesburg, City of Tshwane, and City of Ekurhuleni, thereby ensuring wider coverage and support for vulnerable populations across Gauteng.
Enhancing Public Safety Technology
Technology will continue to play a critical role in supporting Gauteng's e-Policing Programme, according to provincial officials. This ongoing commitment to technological integration in policing aims to bolster public safety and law enforcement capabilities. As part of these efforts, 960 Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras have been strategically installed across Gauteng to enhance surveillance and improve crime prevention and response. These cameras provide key monitoring capabilities in key areas. Additionally, the initiative has seen the distribution of more than 184,000 e-Panic Buttons, providing residents with immediate access to emergency services when needed. These measures are intended to bolster the province's capacity to respond swiftly and effectively to incidents, thereby improving overall security infrastructure and fostering a safer environment for all residents.
Skills Development and Innovation
The department is actively investing in human capital to ensure the successful adoption and utilization of digital services. To facilitate public access, the department will appoint 75 e-Ambassadors to help residents navigate and access online platforms and government services. Concurrently, significant plans are in place to train 5,500 government officials to enhance their digital proficiencies and ensure they are equipped to operate in an increasingly digital environment. To foster future talent and address the demand for skilled ICT professionals, 70 ICT bursaries will be awarded to promising students. Additionally, 100 young people will receive invaluable experiential learning opportunities, providing them with practical skills and industry exposure.
Further initiatives include supporting 12,000 youth through the Action Lab Programme, which aims to nurture innovation and digital literacy among young people. The department also aims to assist 200 township-based ICT entrepreneurs with skills development, mentorship, and innovation support, fostering local economic growth and technological advancement. Young innovators across Gauteng's five regions will additionally participate in the Youth Tech Expo G13 Hackathon Series, promoting digital creativity, problem-solving, and the development of innovative solutions to provincial challenges.
Future Priorities and Resilience
The Gauteng Department of e-Government will continue to implement its e-waste management programme, emphasizing environmental responsibility and sustainable digital practices. Cybersecurity and digital resilience are identified as key priorities for the department, reflecting the increasing importance of protecting government data and systems from evolving threats. The department's focus on these areas ensures the integrity and reliability of its digital infrastructure. Additionally, the department plans to establish an Artificial Intelligence Office dedicated to coordinating the adoption of AI across government operations, ensuring that this transformative technology is leveraged strategically and ethically to further enhance service delivery and operational efficiency.
