Parliament greenlights billions for PRASA, rebuilding Parliament

The National Assembly has officially passed the Special Appropriation Bill, greenlighting a significant injection of capital for infrastructure and digital development.

The move clears the way for an additional R5.8 billion dedicated to the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) for its new rolling stock fleet.

The bill addresses urgent financial needs that fall outside the standard budget framework. In addition to the rail investment, the Special Appropriation Bill provides R2 billion for the ongoing rebuilding of Parliament and R700 million for the Department of Communications and Digital Technology.

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In the 2026 budget, the PRASA allocation is specifically earmarked to ensure the agency meets its contractual obligations with the manufacturer, Gibela, and continues its fleet renewal program.

While the bill received broad support, the Standing Committee on Appropriations emphasised the need for strict oversight. Committee Chairperson Mmusi Maimane noted that the PRASA funds would be under close scrutiny.

"I want to urge the Minister of Transport to say it is going to be important to hold PRASA accountable for the execution of this project. There’s a significant resource that is going here."

The legislation moved to a vote following a report by the Appropriations Committee. Deputy Speaker Annelie Lotriet confirmed the results of the division.

"The yes 228, No 85, no abstentions; and therefore, the report on Special Appropriation is agreed to."

The legislation will now be transmitted to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) for concurrence before it can be signed into law.