McKenzie unveils R6.3bn budget to boost arts, culture and sport

By Thapelo Molefe

Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie has announced a R6.31 billion budget allocation for the 2025/26 financial year.

Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, McKenzie said the budget allocation for the 2025/26 financial year would support the department’s mission to create opportunities, nurture young talent, and preserve South Africa’s heritage.

“We are here to talk about making budget available for people to get something even more important and that is any chance at all,” he said.

The largest portion of the budget will go toward key programmes that drive the department’s work.

This includes R2.7 billion for heritage and library services, R1.7 billion for arts and culture development, and R1.2 billion for the promotion of recreation and sport.

“These investments are aimed at ensuring that all South Africans, regardless of their background, have access to sports, culture and information,” McKenzie said.

“Too many talented South Africans