The ex-post results of Gender Responsive Budgeting at the Gauteng Provincial Treasury

Abstract

Gender-responsive budgeting is a key component of public policy in South Africa. This study aims to explore the extent to which the implementation of the Gender Responsive Planning Budgeting Monitoring Evaluation and Auditing Framework (GRPBMEAF) at the Gauteng Provincial Treasury (GPT) contributes to address the problem of how women are continuously excluded and subordinated at a political, economic, and social level. Through qualitative interviews with key employees involved in the framework's implementation, the study reveals varying levels of awareness and understanding of GRB among staff, alongside significant challenges such as limited managerial buy-in and resource constraints. Despite recognition of the framework's potential to improve gender equity, issues persist regarding the effectiveness of its application and monitoring processes. The findings underscore the necessity for enhanced training, stronger political commitment, and the establishment of robust evaluation mechanisms to foster accountability and ensure the intended outcomes of gender-responsive budgeting are realized. This study contributes to the discourse on gender budgeting, advocating for systemic changes to embed gender considerations within public financial management.