Extension of debt-relief is lifeline to struggling households – Tshwane

The Tshwane metro has once again heeded the call of its residents by extending its popular Incentive Debt-Relief Scheme to May 31.

The extension aims to provide much-needed financial breathing space for households and businesses facing mounting municipal debt.

Tshwane Deputy Mayor and MMC of Finance Eugene Modise said the extension comes after overwhelming requests from residents and businesses seeking more time to access the benefits of the programme.

Modise said the initiative has already proven to be a critical tool in relieving financial pressure during tough economic times.

“This extension of this scheme not only supports our hard-pressed residents but also assists the metro in strengthening its financial footing.

“Optimising revenue collection is at the heart of this municipality coalition’s agenda and has played a pivotal role in achieving a funded municipal budget,” said Modise.

According to Modise, the metro’s total municipal debt currently stands at R25.69-billion.

However, this figure represents a significant improvement, a 13.19% reduction compared to the previous month.

Modise said part of this success can be attributed to the targeted implementation of the debt-relief scheme and efforts to recover funds from inactive or indigent accounts.

The metro has already written off R2.42-billion from registered indigent accounts, bringing meaningful relief to the most vulnerable residents.

An additional R1.83-billion has been wiped from over 31 500 inactive accounts, a step aimed at cleaning up the metro’s debtor’s book and streamlining future collection efforts.

Modise said during the previous phase of the scheme, over 10 200 applications were received, which indicates how desperately this assistance is needed.

The metro anticipates even more applications as word spreads.

He said a key component of the latest extension is the waiver of the standard R29 000 tamper fee, which is typically charged when illegal connections or tampering with municipal infrastructure is discovered.

The City of Tshwane is committed to assisting residents, businesses and other customers to manage their municipal debt effectively. Residents of Soshanguve came in numbers for #DebtReliefProgramme@CityTshwane pic.twitter.com/st5HfseWV7

— Eugene Modise (@eugene_modise) March 26, 2025

The metro is encouraging residents to come forward, regularise their municipal accounts, and reconnect legally without fear of harsh financial penalties.

“This move is about meeting people where they are. By waiving tamper fees, we are creating a path to compliance that’s compassionate and realistic.

“We appreciate the volunteerism and honesty displayed by the people of Tshwane. Their determination to pay for services reflects a deep love for this municipality and a shared desire to see it thrive,” said Modise.

Modise urged all eligible households and businesses to take advantage of the extended deadline.

He emphasised that the success of the programme depends on active community participation and a shared commitment to municipal accountability.

Residents of Mamelodi came out in numbers to take full advantage of the #DebtReliefIncentiveProgramme before it closing date.
To find out when we’re going to be in your area kindly consult with your ward councillor &/or the nearest customer care centre.@CityTshwane pic.twitter.com/Q2ilxgdJVj

— Eugene Modise (@eugene_modise) March 19, 2025

Residents and businesses interested in the scheme can contact the metro’s finance department or visit regional customer care centres for guidance.

Applications must be submitted before May 31 to qualify for the available incentives.

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