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[QUOTE="Munyaradzi Mafaro, post: 70999, member: 636"]
South Africa's finance minister dismissed criticism that authorities neglect routine municipal services while rushing infrastructure improvements before international gatherings, defending preparations for an upcoming summit of world leaders. Enoch Godongwana rejected characterizations that the government prioritizes cosmetic upgrades to impress foreign visitors over addressing persistent social challenges, stating that the nation continuously tackles poverty through employment initiatives and extensive social assistance programs reaching 18 million beneficiaries monthly.

Gauteng authorities allocated more than 150 million rand for road repairs and public space enhancements ahead of the economic forum hosting heads of state from major economies. Provincial officials maintain that investments will produce lasting benefits, including increased foreign capital inflows, employment opportunities, and tourism revenue rather than temporary cosmetic changes.

Critics pointed to accelerated pothole repairs, street cleaning, and lighting restoration in commercial districts as evidence of selective service delivery that highlights systemic neglect of communities throughout the year. The minister countered that South Africa ranks among global leaders in social spending relative to economic output while working to reduce inequality affecting over half the population living below poverty thresholds.
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