The Community Action Network (CAN), an OUTA initiative, is calling on South Africans to review and comment on their local municipality’s draft budget for 2025/26. Here’s how to do it.

Many municipal budgets propose above-inflation rate and tariff hikes, placing further strain on struggling households.

Municipalities must legally open their draft budgets for public comment by 31 March 2025, with a 30-day participation window. CAN’s campaign provides the tools and resources communities need to engage effectively.

“We’ve developed step-by-step guides, explainers, and practical tools to help residents understand and influence their municipal budgets,” says CAN Project Manager Jonathan Erasmus. “This process isn’t just about signing a petition - it requires informed, structured input. We’re making it easier.”

Resources include:

• A clear timeline of the budget process

• Easy-to-use guides on making submissions

• Help with interpreting municipal budgets using mSCOA 

• Links to every municipal website for easy access to draft budgets

OUTA’s Executive Director for Local Government, Julius Kleynhans, highlights the power of collective action: “When communities submit well-informed objections, we see real change. Now’s the time to make your voice count.”

Make an impact—review your municipality’s budget and submit your comments today! Read our guide here