The Gauteng provincial government is cracking down on unpaid debts, including millions owed by foreign governments, the Road Accident Fund (RAF), and even former employees who continue to receive salaries after resigning.
Finance MEC Lebogang Maile announced the establishment of a specialized debt collection panel aimed at recovering outstanding funds. The move is part of a broader revenue enhancement strategy to address financial leaks and improve service delivery.
Who Owes Gauteng?
Maile revealed that several entities owe the province substantial amounts, including:
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Foreign governments – Responsible for covering hospital bills of their nationals treated in Gauteng facilities.
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Road Accident Fund (RAF) – Fails to reimburse the province for medical costs of accident victims.
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Other provinces – Patients from outside Gauteng receive treatment, but their home provinces delay payments.
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Former employees – Some continue receiving salaries due to system delays in processing resignations, resulting in “ghost worker” cases.
While Maile acknowledged that some debts stem from administrative inefficiencies, he emphasized that every rand must be recovered to fund critical services like education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Municipalities and Online Betting in Focus
The province also plans to take over vehicle license fee collections from municipalities to ensure timely payments. Currently, some municipalities collect fees but delay transferring them to the provincial government.
Additionally, Gauteng is moving to regulate online gambling, a sector currently generating nearly R1 billion annually. Maile expects revenue to triple once proper oversight is in place.
Avoiding the Kenny Kunene Controversy
When asked about the scandal involving Johannesburg Transport MMC Kenny Kunene—who was suspended after being linked to a murder accused—Maile declined to comment, stating he lacked sufficient details. However, he reiterated the government’s stance against criminal activity and support for law enforcement.
Next Steps
The debt collection panel will begin work soon, targeting both institutional and individual debtors. Meanwhile, amendments to online gambling laws are expected before the provincial legislature by year-end.
With Gauteng’s finances under pressure, the province is leaving no stone unturned in its bid to recover what it is owed.
