AG's report reveals failed infrastructure projects exacerbated by flaws in procurement

The Auditor-General's report has revealed a pattern of failed infrastructure projects, which have laid bare deep-rooted weaknesses in government procurement, raising concerns about the state’s ability to deliver basic services.

Presenting the national and provincial audit outcomes for 2024/25, Tsakani Maluleke says inspections of 136 projects uncovered widespread failures, including delays, cost overruns poor construction quality and infrastructure that remains unused after completion.

At the heart of this crisis is a procurement system vulnerable to fraud and corruption, with contracts frequently awarded to contractors who lack the capacity to deliver.

She said accountability remains weak with contractors able to abandon sites after receiving payment, without consequences.

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Maluleke also warned that in many instances, the necessary skills and capabilities simply do not exist within departments to effectively plan, monitor and deliver infrastructure projects.

"One of my anxieties is that money will continue to be sent to different entities and departments, and we wonder why there’s still no cranes across South Africa, we wonder why the economy is not stimulated. Infrastructure in the ground is not being maintained, whether it's government buildings for years and years, in fact, there’s been a horrible fire in the Eastern Cape."