Speaking at the Budget Vote held at the Kopanong Indoor Sports Centre in Welkom on 30 April 2026, MEC Dibolelo Mance outlined the Department’s commitment to restoring the integrity of public infrastructure, strengthening internal capacity and ensuring that government buildings and facilities continue to serve communities efficiently and sustainably.

The Department enters the financial year with an allocation of R2.3 billion. While the budget remains under pressure due to increasing municipal costs, property rates and the maintenance demands of ageing infrastructure, the Department remains focused on delivering value, improving accountability and accelerating service delivery across the province.

MEC Mance highlighted that infrastructure is more than bricks and mortar – it is the backbone of economic growth, public service delivery and human dignity. In line with the priorities of the 7th Administration and the ANC’s 2024 Election Manifesto, the Department is driving programmes aimed at inclusive growth, poverty reduction and job creation.

A key focus area remains maintenance of existing infrastructure. The MEC stressed that government cannot focus only on new projects while existing facilities deteriorate. Planned maintenance remains critical to preserving public assets, reducing long-term costs and creating sustainable employment opportunities.

Several important maintenance and refurbishment projects were completed during the previous financial year. These include the refurbishment of Lady Brand House, now occupied by the Department of Agriculture, as well as the successful installation of solar energy systems at MPL Village and Prestige Houses. Electrical infrastructure upgrades at Fidel Castro Building were also completed to improve operational safety and efficiency.

The Department continues to implement a wide range of infrastructure projects throughout the province. These include upgrades to government buildings, rehabilitation of unused facilities and new construction projects for schools, clinics and offices.

Among the major education infrastructure projects currently under construction are Father Balink Primary School in Parys, Trompsburg Special School and Hostel, Boitumelong Special School Hostel in Thaba Nchu, and Morena Tshohisi Primary School in Harrismith. These projects will provide improved learning environments and accommodation facilities for learners across the province.

Healthcare infrastructure also remains a priority. The Thandanani Clinic in Welkom is nearing completion, while Rheederpark Clinic and the new Dinaane Clinic in Thaba Nchu continue to progress steadily. Dinaane Clinic stands as a showcase of the Department’s internal construction capabilities and commitment to sustainable infrastructure, featuring energy-efficient design elements that will reduce operational costs over time.

The Department is also strengthening its workforce and investing in skills development. During the past financial year, 44 training interventions were completed, exceeding annual targets and equipping officials with critical technical, administrative and leadership skills. The Department currently employs 1 131 staff members, with women making up 56% of the workforce and gender parity achieved at senior management level.

Transformation and inclusion remain central to the Department’s strategy. Forty-five employees with disabilities are currently employed, while internship and graduate development programmes continue to create opportunities for young professionals entering the built environment sector.

Through the Expanded Public Works Programme, the Department exceeded its target by creating 2 071 work opportunities across the province. These opportunities were generated through initiatives such as Cash for Waste, Cleaning and Greening, Artisan Development and the National Youth Service Programme.

The Artisan Development Programme continues to deliver meaningful results, with 45 artisans already qualified through the initiative. The programme has also provided direct support to municipalities through maintenance of public infrastructure, including repairs to water systems, streetlights and public facilities.

The Department further committed R47.9 million towards EPWP initiatives for the current financial year to continue expanding employment opportunities and support community development initiatives.

Property management and revenue enhancement also remain important priorities. The Department is currently managing nearly 4 900 immovable assets valued at approximately R13 billion while also driving efforts to repurpose unused government buildings and reduce leasing costs.

As the province continues to face economic pressure and rising unemployment, the Department says its focus remains clear – building capable institutions, maintaining infrastructure, creating jobs and ensuring that public resources are used responsibly for the benefit of all Free State residents.