Public Service and Administration Minister Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi has characterized the transition to the Government of National Unity’s (GNU) seventh administration as seamless across the public service sector.
The Minister made these comments while presenting the budget vote for the Ministry of Public Service and Administration to Parliament at the Good Hope Chambers in Cape Town on Wednesday.
“The transition to the seventh administration has been smooth, despite initial concerns regarding potential instability. The Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) has effectively guided departments through the shift from the 6th to the 7th Administration, issuing practical circulars to promote sound recruitment practices and ensure compliance,†he said.
“We mandated that Special Advisors and support staff complete the Nyukela Course and Competency Assessments, ensuring that Executive Authorities receive quality advice and support. Our dedicated public servants have navigated the political complexities, guaranteeing that governance and service delivery remain on track.
“We are committed to strategically supporting and investing in the public service to enhance governance and service delivery—addressing inefficiencies, low productivity, corruption, and accountability,†he added.
Minister Inkosi Buthelezi said the DPSA’s budget allocation for the 2025/26 financial year will focus on several crucial areas, including the development of a Remuneration Policy aimed at ensuring fair compensation and the implementation of the Batho Pele Revitalisation Campaign to encourage active citizen participation and improve service delivery.
Notably, the DPSA has the lowest budget consumption among government departments. Consequently, the Minister tabled a joint budget of R564.720 million for the upcoming financial year, which is allocated to both the DPSA and the Centre for Public Service Innovation (CPSI). The National School of Government (NSG) will operate with a budget of R228.6 million, while the Public Service Commission (PSC) is allocated R302 million.
Professionalisation Framework
The Minister also announced that the department is fully engaged in implementing the Professionalisation Framework, which he described as necessary for ensuring professionalism beyond political terms, ultimately building public trust and enhancing service delivery.
“Since our last budget vote in 2024, the DPSA has been at the forefront of professionalizing the public service,†he said. This comprehensive approach includes merit-based appointments, competitive recruitment processes, ongoing training, and a strong commitment to digitally transforming public service delivery.
Public Service Reform
Minister Buthelezi noted that significant progress has been made in public service reform over the past year, emphasizing a strong focus on improving efficiency, accountability, and citizen engagement. He stated that the department’s collective efforts aim to rebuild public trust through a renewed and purpose-driven public service that genuinely serves everyone.
Modernizing Public Services
The Minister highlighted the department’s commitment to modernizing public services through digitization and ICT innovations, which have established a solid foundation for a more responsive government.
Partnership with Organized Labor
Minister Inkosi Buthelezi remarked that concluding wage negotiations before the end of the fiscal year reflects improved relations between trade unions and the government.
“The partnership with organized labor has also been instrumental in enhancing the welfare of public servants. These efforts are critical in creating a capable, ethical, and developmental state that truly addresses the needs of all South Africans,†he concluded.
