Johannesburg: Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has delivered a comprehensive update highlighting the province's key milestones in combatting crime, healthcare, finance, and infrastructure development. Lesufi addressed a media briefing on Wednesday morning on the provincial government's programme of action, pointing to a measured 3.0% decline in contact crimes during the first quarter of the 2026/27 financial year.
According to South African Government News Agency, the crime stats release comes as the province was rocked by the discovery of the bodies of eight women in separate incidents across Ekurhuleni. Lesufi described the situation as "heartbreaking and deeply disturbing," emphasizing the commitment to support law enforcement in bringing perpetrators to justice and ensuring the safety of women in the province.
Lesufi reported significant progress in healthcare, particularly with the roll-out of the bi-annual HIV-prevention injection, Lenacapavir. Since June 2026, the initiative has gained traction across 133 health facilities in five districts, with 24,390 new initiations recorded between June and August 2026, providing protection against HIV for six months.
Financial governance and consequence management remain top priorities for the provincial administration. Lesufi confirmed that lifestyle audits targeting Supply Chain Management and Finance officials are well underway, with 3671 officials having submitted their audit forms. Additionally, a comprehensive forensic investigation has been requested for 20 high and medium-risk officials from the Office of the Premier and Gauteng COGTA.
Accountability measures also extended to the long-standing Kopanong Precinct project. A forensic investigation revealed irregular expenditure of R558 million due to mismanagement of lease agreements. Lesufi assured that recommendations from the report would be implemented to improve governance and accountability.
In addressing infrastructural upgrades, the Premier announced the successful conclusion of negotiations for a new Gautrain concessionaire, with operations set to commence on 28 September 2026. This development promises expanded services, infrastructure upgrades, and renewable energy integration.
While challenges such as water supply issues, public violence, and the growth of informal settlements persist, Lesufi assured that the province is actively tackling these issues through coordinated efforts and strict accountability measures, including lifestyle audits and financial reforms.