By Emily Setona
WELKOM – Free State Public Works and Infrastructure MEC Dibolelo Mance has tabled a R2.3 billion budget aimed at rebuilding public assets, boosting service delivery and accelerating job creation.
Delivering the 2026/27 Budget Vote at Kopanong Sports Centre on April 30, Mance said the bulk of funding—R2.1 billion—will go to infrastructure delivery, with R206.5 million allocated to administration and R71.5 million to the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).
The plan prioritises institutional efficiency, infrastructure upgrades and employment, with early gains already recorded.
These include refurbishment of government buildings, installation of solar energy systems and critical upgrades to improve safety and reliability.
“We are restoring the integrity of government infrastructure while ensuring accountable, long-term asset management,” Mance said.
The EPWP exceeded its target, creating 2,071 work opportunities against a target of 2,000. Programmes such as Cash for Waste, Cleaning and Greening, and the National Youth Service drove the gains, alongside the Artisan Development Programme, which produced 45 qualified artisans.
Administrative capacity has also improved, with recruitment and training targets surpassed and a fully functional e-recruitment system introduced to boost transparency. Women now make up 56% of the workforce, with gender parity achieved at senior management level.
Education and health infrastructure remain central to delivery. Several school projects are nearing completion, while Thandanani Clinic is 96.5% complete.
Upgrades to hospitals and clinics are expected to improve access to services and support small contractors.
The department manages more than 4,800 properties valued at about R13 billion. Plans are underway to dispose of unused assets and strengthen revenue collection, which reached R48.2 million.
Security has also been tightened, with 25 state sites protected and EPWP-trained personnel deployed, reducing reliance on private security.
Mance said the budget strikes a balance between infrastructure development and economic inclusion.
“This budget builds a capable department that delivers, creates jobs and supports communities across the Free State,” she concluded.
