Mbabane – The Municipal Council of Mbabane plans to cut its reliance on rates to below 70 per cent of its budget by 2029, as it seeks to strengthen its finances and improve revenue collection.
Municipal Council of Mbabane Chief Executive Officer Gciniwe Fakudze said the council would also target a three per cent improvement in rates collection every year until 2029.
Fakudze was speaking on September 18, 2026, during the council’s Annual Meeting at eMafini Country Lodge, where the municipality presented its Annual Report and audited financial statements for the financial year ended March 31, 2026.
In accordance with Section 103(3) of the Urban Government Act, 1969, the audited financial statements are now open for public viewing at the Municipal Offices.
The latest figures show that the council collected 83 per cent of current rates during the 2025/26 financial year. Its rates campaign also saw 2,419 properties qualify, generating E19 million.
The council’s financial targets come as it reported progress in several areas during the year under review. It recorded 31 per cent implementation of its Integrated Development Plan (IDP), against a 20 per cent target, while organisational performance stood at 90 per cent.
The municipality also had 102 employees during the 2025/26 financial year and approved 232 building plans with a combined development value of E203 million.
In another development, the council installed 60 security cameras as part of its efforts to improve security in Mbabane.
Mayor Thulani Mkhonto said the council remained focused on sustainable development, improved municipal service delivery, transparency and accountability.
Mkhonto said the Annual Performance Report and Audited Financial Statements represented the council’s efforts to balance its strategic objectives with fiscal prudence.
He said the council’s work was aimed at building a resilient and thriving capital city, while recognising the contribution of residents and stakeholders to the development of Mbabane.
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