The South African Government has officially announced that the 2026 National Budget Speech will be delivered by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana on 25 February 2026.
In the lead-up to the speech, Minister Godongwana is calling on citizens, business leaders and civil society to submit concise budget suggestions that could help inform the government’s fiscal priorities. South Africans are encouraged to share their views on a range of issues - from spending priorities and tax policies to debt sustainability and financing for energy, water and municipal services.
The call for input is part of a broader effort to make the budgeting process more inclusive, giving everyday people a chance to influence how public resources are allocated in a year marked by continued economic pressures and inequality. Contributions should be no longer than 300 words and must be submitted by 16 February 2026 via the National Treasury’s Budget Tips portal.
Participants can also engage with the process through social media by tagging their ideas with #TipsForMinFin and #Budget2026, broadening the conversation about South Africa’s fiscal priorities.
This year’s budget comes amid widespread public interest in issues such as balancing economic growth with support for vulnerable communities, addressing the persistent budget deficit, and strengthening the performance of state-owned entities. By inviting input from the public, the Treasury aims to ensure that the final Budget Speech reflects a diversity of perspectives to help shape South Africa’s fiscal roadmap for 2026.