The Executive Mayor of the City of Ekurhuleni, Ald. Nkosindiphile Xhakaza,
proudly announces the approval of the revised Debt Relief and Incentive Scheme at the
Ordinary Council Meeting held on Thursday, 29th August 2024, in Germiston. Mayor Xhakaza
applauds the newly appointed MMC for Finance, Ald. Jongizizwe Dlabathi, for this pivotal
achievement, which marks a significant step in delivering financial relief to our residents while
maintaining the sustainability of the city’s revenue collection efforts.
The revised scheme is a clear demonstration of the African National Congress led multi-party
coalition’s appreciation of the financial pressures faced by many households and businesses
across Ekurhuleni. It reflects the Administration’s resolve to balance financial relief with the
ever important need to maintain a healthy revenue base for the continued provision of essential
services.
The key highlights of the revised scheme include:
1. A 70% debt write-off on the portion of debt that is over 12 months old, with the remaining
30% to be written off within 36 months. This provision is available to households with a
property value not exceeding R3 million.
2. An increase in the property value threshold from R1.5 million to R3 million, allowing more
households to benefit from the 70% debt write-off.
3. A 100% interest write-off on accounts associated with properties valued above R3 million.
4. Qualifying businesses will also benefit from a 100% interest write-off, with a 36-month
payment arrangement.
5. A three-month waiver period, during which households with illegal connections can
regularize their status and subsequently benefit from the debt relief and rehabilitation
program.
6. A Rand Value credit for account holders who have consistently submitted their meter
readings for 12 months, aimed at minimizing interim billing.
7. The extension of the revised scheme’s validity until June 2026, providing ample time for
eligible residents and businesses to take advantage of these benefits.
“This policy revision is a testament to our commitment to the residents of Ekurhuleni. We
recognise the financial hardships that many residents are experiencing, and this scheme is our
way of providing meaningful relief without compromising the city’s financial health. We
encourage all eligible households and businesses to take full advantage of this opportunity and
work with us to ensure a financially sustainable future for our city.” Said Executive Mayor
Xhakaza.
For more information on how to apply for the Debt Relief and Incentive Scheme, residents and
businesses are encouraged to contact their nearest Customer Care Centre or visit the City of
Ekurhuleni’s official website
