DBSA 2026/27 strategic plan & infrastructure delivery

Video The Select Committee on Finance received a briefing from the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) on its strategic plan, mandate, infrastructure delivery programmes, and financial sustainability. DBSA reported that it supported over R91.3 billion worth of infrastructure projects during 2025/26, including investments in renewable energy, water, transport, hospitals, student housing, and municipal infrastructure. It also highlighted its blended finance model, technical support to municipalities, and a record net profit of R4.1 billion. Members raised concerns about delays, cost overruns, governance failures, and DBSA’s exposure to financially distressed municipalities. Questions were asked about contractor failures, procurement oversight, transformation targets, job creation, and if DBSA has sufficient capacity to continue acting as an implementing agent for large infrastructure projects. Members sought clarity on timelines, costs and progress on the reconstruction of Parliament following the 2022 fire. In response, DBSA explained that reconstruction planning formally commenced in 2023 after investigations into the fire were completed. Construction began in April 2025, with completion targeted ahead of the 2027 State of the Nation Address. DBSA outlined measures to strengthen procurement oversight, manage project risks, support black women-owned businesses, and expand youth employment and skills development initiatives. It also reported that its municipal loan book remains stable, with low levels of non-performing loans. The Committee also considered proposals for its provincial oversight visit and international study tour.