Free State Public Works and Infrastructure MEC Dibolelo Mance will this week host Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Sihle Zikalala for a high-impact two-day integrated oversight and service delivery programme, as part of the government’s flagship Letsema initiative aimed at accelerating visible and tangible service delivery across the province. The programme, scheduled to take place in Parys and Mangaung on 20 and 21 August, is designed to bring government closer to communities, address infrastructure backlogs, and foster collaborative governance.
The Letsema initiative, which translates to “working together” in Setswana, has been rolled out across various provinces as a vehicle for unblocking stalled projects, fast-tracking repairs, and ensuring that government buildings and public facilities are functional and accessible. During the two-day blitz, Mance and Zikalala are expected to conduct site visits to key infrastructure projects, engage with municipal officials, and hold community dialogues to hear firsthand the challenges faced by residents.
A key focus of the programme will be the assessment of government-owned buildings, including schools, clinics, and administrative offices, many of which have fallen into disrepair due to budget constraints and maintenance backlogs. The delegation will also inspect progress on the refurbishment of the Mangaung Regional Court and the Parys Thusong Service Centre, both of which have been flagged for urgent intervention.
“We are not coming to talk; we are coming to do,” MEC Mance said ahead of the visit. “The Letsema blitz is about rolling up our sleeves and ensuring that the resources allocated for public infrastructure are translating into real benefits for our communities.”
Deputy Minister Zikalala echoed this sentiment, adding that the oversight visit would also focus on strengthening the capacity of local municipalities to manage infrastructure projects effectively. As the delegation prepares to hit the ground in Parys and Mangaung, communities will be watching closely to see whether the Letema blitz delivers more than just photo opportunities—and whether the promise of hands-on governance finally becomes a reality in the Free State.
About The Author
