KwaZulu-Natal's Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) MEC Martin Meyer is set to present a R2.4 billion budget for the 2025/26 fiscal year, with a significant focus on reducing substantial lease expenditures, projected to be close to one billion rand. This reduction will be achieved through refurbishing and utilizing the department's own properties, exemplified by the Esplanade Government Building (EGB) project, which aims to consolidate provincial government departments and incorporate modern, eco-friendly designs. The budget will also prioritize job creation through an enhanced Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), incorporating digital recruitment, skills training via the new "Working on Infrastructure" pilot project, and private sector partnerships to foster employment growth. Reforms are underway to combat corruption within the EPWP, emphasizing robust digital systems for recruitment and oversight. Additionally, the department is continuing its investment in digitization, having already implemented initiatives like e-gov and e-leave, projecting millions in savings on printing and transportation costs.