Following the National DoT’s recent landmark ‘clean audit’ (https://fleetwatch.co.za/fleetwatch-article/dots-clean-audit-sends-the-right-signal-finally/) the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has also just attained a clean audit opinion for the 2024/25 financial year, a first for the province.

The clean bill of management health proves that departmental resources are being managed efficiently and every rand spent on roads and transport projects is accounted for – a positive shift that road freight operators in the province will undoubtedly welcome.  

According to MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela the achievement is “an historic moment for us as a department. It hasn’t been an easy journey and credit must go to the collective efforts of management, officials and stakeholders.” She said the clean audit reflects the Department’s “unwavering determination and dedication and sets a benchmark for transparent and accountable governance.”

For the trucking industry, the implications are positive. Well-managed budgets and strong internal controls ensure that road maintenance projects are delivered on time, congestion points are addressed and freight corridors remain safe and predictable.

Tightening internal controls

As Diale-Tlabela explains: “This achievement proves that clean governance and strong financial management translate into better service delivery. We are not just managing and building roads and transport networks, we are enhancing public trust. This clean audit belongs to the people of Gauteng and demonstrates that every rand is accounted for, managed responsibly and used for intended purpose.”

The Department’s recent focus on tightening internal controls and prioritising consequence management is now paying dividends. “This clean audit demonstrates those efforts are yielding results and the Department is firmly on course to deliver on its mandate – a modern, reliable and safe transport system for people of Gauteng,” she concludes.

For freight operators, these governance gains are more than administrative benchmarks. They underpin road reliability, reduce project delays and strengthen Gauteng’s position as South Africa’s industrial and logistics hub, ensuring that trucks, cargo and commerce continue to move efficiently and safely.

Editor’s comment: FleetWatch applauds these efforts and hopes that clean governance becomes the new normal, supporting not just trucks and cargo, but the economy and communities that depend on efficient, well-maintained transport networks. Well done to all at the GDRT! Now can all Government Departments – national, provincial and municipal – follow the examples of the DoT and the GDRT.

Corruption and mismanagement have caused huge damage to South Africa over the years. Clean audits will certainly help regain the trust of the public.

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