# Government is increasing its contingency reserve to ten-billion-rand for the 2026/2027 financial year to prepare for drought, the expected El Niño weather pattern and possible further energy-price shocks. The reserve is intended to buffer emergencies that could put additional pressure on households, businesses and government spending. Finance minister Enoch Godongwana says stronger public finances have improved the country’s ability to respond to unexpected crises:
BUDGET: Government sets aside R10-billion for drought and energy risks [SOUND]
ENG GodongwanaOnEnergyDrought