The first quarter of the 2023/24 financial year began with a capital expenditure of R598.1, making up a mere 7.4% of the total yearly capital budget and constituting just 0.1% of the city's GDP. This initial low spending is in line with the recurring annual trend. Capital expenditures have historically been subdued in the first quarter due to lengthy approval procedures for the awarding of tenders. These administrative challenges often lead to lower expenditures at the onset of the fiscal year. However, as project approvals are granted, the capital spending typically accelerates, peaking in the fourth quarter of the year. It's worth highlighting that the City's capital budget for the 2023/24 fiscal year has seen a significant increase of 32.8%, rising from R6.1 billion to R8.1 billion. However, there needs to be a sustained increase in the capital budget over the medium term, while ensuring that the full budget is spent within the respective financial year. This will ensure that critical infrastructure assets are maintained and renewed within the City.