Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane has pledged government backing for Bizana service delivery improvements and thrown his support behind a local agro-processing enterprise, stating on 14 June 2026 that provincial initiatives will enhance both infrastructure and food security in the region. His commitment follows the allocation of R9 billion for infrastructure in the province’s R105 billion 2026/27 budget, as announced by Finance MEC Mlungisi Mvoko in March, targeting critical upgrades to strengthen service delivery in municipalities including Bizana.

Provincial Backing For Local Enterprise

Mabuyane’s focus includes support for Nandipha Sodwele’s agro-processing business in Bizana, which produces maize meal and related products, aiming to boost local food security and drive rural economic growth. According to a 14 June statement from his office, Mabuyane stressed the importance of empowering young entrepreneurs as a means to tackle unemployment and uplift rural communities in the Eastern Cape.

Speaking about broader systemic challenges during a recent televised address, Mabuyane stated, “We are sorting out the systems once and for all together with [department of] education to make sure that all those who are contracted are able to get their money on time.” The Premier has prioritised hands-on intervention, following his April 2024 directive to Buffalo City Metro to address its recurring billing and service delivery breakdowns after public protests in East London.

Budget And Infrastructure Commitments

Finance MEC Mlungisi Mvoko confirmed the Eastern Cape’s R105 billion budget for 2026/27, with R9 billion ringfenced for infrastructure investment across sectors including roads, water, schools, and clinics. “We have had ongoing pressure over the years when it comes to our fiscal situation. Over and above that pressure, there are issues within departments in our province that do not seem to go away. These include accumulated liabilities such as irregular expenditure,” Mvoko said in March during the budget address.

In recent years, public frustration over slow municipal upgrades and administrative inefficiencies has prompted repeated calls for reforms in provincial service delivery, with Bizana and Buffalo City Metro areas cited as priority concerns. Community stakeholders welcome the focus on food production initiatives and hope sustained investment will translate into visible improvements on the ground.

The Premier’s office confirmed ongoing monitoring of municipalities to address legacy service delivery issues, with further local visits and enterprise support programmes planned in Bizana during the coming financial year.