Free State Department of Public Works and Infrastructure

12/06/2026

Happy Birthday, MEC, Dibolelo Mance!

On this special day, we celebrate a leader whose vision, courage, and dedication continue to inspire hope and progress.

May the year ahead be filled with good health, abundant blessings, and the fulfillment of every purpose placed before you.

Happy Birthday! May your light continue to shine brightly as you lead and serve with distinction.

10/06/2026

Today, 10 June 2026 The National Council of Provinces held a Policy Debate on Budget Vote 13: Public Works and Infrastructure.

The Public Works Ministry presented the budget, after which Delegates to the NCOP participated in the debate.

MEC Dibolelo Mance informed the house of the department’s support of the budget vote.

“The people of South Africa do not experience government through constitutional provisions. They experience government through the quality of roads they travel on, the schools their children attend, the clinics that provide healthcare, and the infrastructure that supports economic activity in their communities.
For this reason, the Free State welcomes the continued national emphasis on infrastructure as a catalyst for economic growth, job creation and improved service delivery.” MEC Mance said.

10/06/2026

MEC, Dibolelo Mance's welcoming breakfast with NYS security personnel.

09/06/2026

MEC MANCE'S WELCOMING SESSION WITH NYS SECURITY TRAINEES:

Today, MEC Dibolelo Mance hosted a welcoming and induction session for the National Youth Service (NYS) Security Trainees. The intake forms part of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) training and skills development initiative that seeks to empower and place young people in the forefront of eligibility for the job market.

First of its kind, the Security Skills Programme aims to combine theoretical learning with practical workplace experience, leading to nationally recognised qualifications and career opportunities in the security industry. In addition, the programme seeks to improve security measures of public facilities, particularly shared services buildings.

MEC Mance welcomed the 34 Participants commended them for their courage to participate in the skill programme. “Today is not just a mere orientation or administration process. It is about empowering our people with knowledge, responsibility, opportunity and hope. This workshop marks the beginning of a journey for many individuals who have been seeking a meaningful opportunity to improve their lives and support their families”, said MEC Mance

"This programme was initiated intentionally to alleviate the challenges of unemployment and poverty in our communities," MEC Mance added.

The Scope of the Skills Programme is on three key areas, namely, Patrol Officer - Grade E, Access Control - Grade D and Asset and Reaction Officer - Grade C.

Upon completion, the Trainees will be awarded with the National Certificate: General Security Practices NQF Level 3.

09/06/2026

MEC, Dibolelo Mance, welcoming breakfast with NYS security personnel.

05/06/2026

04/06/2026

EPWP induction workshop in Mangaung.

03/06/2026

CESA hosts Leadership Seminar in Free State

On 3 June 2026, the MEC for Public Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Dibolelo Mance, delivered a keynote speech at the Consulting Engineers South Africa (CESA) leadership seminar held at Splendid Premier Inn Hotel, Bloemfontein.

The seminar served as an engaging platform between senior and young professionals, and students from CUT within the engineering industry. Furthermore, it was an opportunity for industry connection, leadership development, and meaningful discussion on infrastructure challenges opportunities within the region.

“Infrastructure goes far beyond buildings, roads, bridges, as well as clinics in the country. Infrastructure is now a developmental tool and human rights for our people, both in rural and urban areas” , said MEC.

The president of CESA, Dr Vishal Haripersad, as well as CEO Christopher Campbell also had impactful insights to share. “Engineers are always willing to teach, if you have the architect to learn”, said Dr Vishal.

02/06/2026

The Joint Economic Cluster Meeting seeks to provide a coordinated platform for departments and entities within the Economic Cluster to engage on strategic priorities, strengthen intergovernmental collaboration, monitor progress on key programmes and projects, and align efforts towards the acceleration of economic development, infrastructure delivery, investment promotion, job creation, and improved service delivery outcomes.

The meeting further serves as a forum to identify challenges, share progress updates, and develop collective interventions on matters requiring an integrated government response.

30/05/2026

ADVANCING ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT THROUGH EPWP EXIT STRATEGIES

Through skills development, training, and entrepreneurship support, EPWP participants are encouraged to explore sustainable exit opportunities, including starting their own businesses, perusing further employment, and creating income generating initiatives that benefit their communities.