17/02/2026
2026: The Year of Decisive Action to Fix Local Government and Transform the Economy
The people of the Free State have spoken. They want working municipalities, reliable services, and real economic opportunities. 2026 is the year we answer that call with decisive action.
Over the past year, we have achieved important results:
- We have invested over R335 million in Early Childhood Development in order to strengthen the foundation of learning, so every child has a real opportunity to thrive from day one.
- Today, 204 of our 220 clinics meet Ideal Clinic standards — meaning cleaner facilities, reliable medicine, shorter waiting times, and better care for our families.
- More than R300 million has been used to settle historical student debt, allowing thousands of young people to receive their certificates, access jobs, and continue their studies.
- Over 90% of households across the Free State now have access to electricity and water — bringing light to homes, clean water to families, and dignity to communities.
- R1.9 billion has been invested in roads and infrastructure, improving safety, connecting communities, and making it easier for businesses to grow and create jobs.
- Over R6 billion has been committed to fixing water and sanitation challenges — working to ensure reliable services and restore dignity in our municipalities.
- 1.1 million residents receive SASSA social grants, providing vital support to vulnerable families and helping to reduce poverty and hunger.
- We have strengthened the fight against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide by expanding support services for survivors and working with communities to protect women and children.
Now we focus on the next step: fixing municipalities and growing the economy.
On Friday, 20 February 2026, Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae will deliver the 2026 State of the Province Address, setting out the province’s plan for decisive action and economic transformation.
The Premier will outline clear plans to:
• Fix local government
• Improve service delivery
• Create jobs
• Build infrastructure
• Grow the Free State economy
📅 Friday, 20 February 2026
🕙 10:00
📍 Old Greys Sport Ground, Bloemfontein
Let us come together and build a stronger, working Free State for all.