The Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies has adopted Budget Vote 30 and Budget Vote 4 reports for the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) and the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), paving the way for the implementation of key priorities in the 2026/27 financial year.
The DCDT has been allocated R2.6 billion, while GCIS will receive R803.2 million to execute their respective annual performance plans aimed at advancing digital transformation and strengthening government communication.
For the 2026/27 financial year, among other things, the DCDT’s focus will be on accelerating universal access to reliable, affordable and secure digital infrastructure. This includes expanding broadband connectivity to underserviced areas, particularly rural communities, townships and public institutions, such as schools, healthcare facilities and government offices. Efforts will also continue to improve the quality and security of public wifi and address infrastructure backlogs contributing to the digital divide.
A key priority for the department is the development and implementation of a modern and enabling policy and regulatory framework for the digital economy. This includes advancing reforms in broadcasting, electronic communications, data governance, cloud computing and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. The department aims to ensure that policy processes are legally sound, evidence-based and consultative to promote investment, competition and transformation in the ICT sector.
In addition, the DCDT will drive the development of a digitally capable society and a digitally transformed state. This will involve implementing the Digital Transformation Roadmap, expanding digital government platforms and improving the integration of government ICT systems. The department will also continue to promote digital and future skills, particularly among youth, women and marginalised groups.
Strengthening oversight and improving the performance of state-owned and public entities within the ICT portfolio remains another priority. The department will enhance governance, financial sustainability and accountability through improved monitoring, reporting and consequence management.
Internally, the DCDT will focus on building institutional capacity and strengthening governance and risk management. This includes improving strategic planning, performance monitoring, legal risk management and intergovernmental coordination to support effective service delivery.
Meanwhile, GCIS will utilise its R803.2 million allocation to strengthen the government communication system and improve its impact. Key priorities include enhancing strategic communication coordination through the implementation of the Integrated Government Communication Plan and piloting an editorial command centre.
Public information campaigns will focus on critical national issues such as service delivery, economic opportunities, elections, gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), combating misinformation and promoting social cohesion. GCIS will also expand its digital communication efforts through platforms such as GoZA TV, the development of omnichannel systems, improved data analytics and the establishment of a digital response hub.
Inclusivity remains central to the GCIS mandate, with a commitment to providing information in all official languages, as well as in South African Sign Language (SASL), Braille and other accessible formats. The entity will also invest in capacity building, including training government communicators in digital and coordination skills, while continuing to support community and grassroots media in partnership with the Media Development and Diversity Agency.
Committee Chairperson Ms Khusela Sangoni-Diko, said the adoption of the budget votes underscores the importance of aligning digital transformation with effective communication. “These budget votes reflect our commitment to ensuring that digital transformation and communication work together to improve the lives of South Africans. Expanding connectivity must go hand in hand with ensuring that citizens are informed, engaged and able to access opportunities,” she said.
Ms Diko emphasised that bridging the digital divide remains critical, saying that government must prioritise access for rural communities and historically disadvantaged areas to ensure that no one is excluded from the digital economy. She further added that strengthening governance across entities and institutions will be key to achieving the desired outcomes.
The committee noted that the adoption of the budget votes will enable both DCDT and GCIS to implement their plans and contribute meaningfully to inclusive development, improved service delivery and a more connected society.
Justice Molafo
5 May 2026
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