Pretoria: The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure: The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has announced plans to expedite the implementation of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) to achieve its ambitious goal of creating millions of work opportunities. Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala made this announcement during a Portfolio Committee meeting held on Wednesday.

According to South African Government News Agency, the implementation of EPWP Phase V will prioritize crucial service delivery interventions. These interventions include restoring the dignity of the indigent through vocational and Further Education and Training skills development and certification. The department emphasized that the program would focus on generating job opportunities for the youth, women, and rural poor communities, who are disproportionately affected by the country’s low economic growth and unemployment rates.

The EPWP Phase V, which commenced in April this year, will span from 2024 to 2029, with a target
to create five million job opportunities. The department is committed to enhancing the EPWP to ensure it makes a significant impact and includes an effective exit plan. The program’s 20th-anniversary celebration, officiated by President Cyril Ramaphosa in the Eastern Cape in April, highlighted its importance. The Presidency described EPWP as a nationwide initiative aimed at providing work opportunities and income support to poor and unemployed individuals through the delivery of public and community assets and services.

Deputy Minister Zikalala also underscored the importance of improving data collection, verification, and recording of employment opportunities in each EPWP sector. Key focus areas in Phase V will include waste management, with an emphasis on recycling, road paving, pothole patching, and maintenance of public facilities.

Zikalala further stressed the necessity of collaboration between all levels of government and the private sector. He stated that the private sector could enhance the program
through social corporate investment, particularly in projects like waste removal and recycling, which could contribute to environmental preservation.

In his closing remarks, Zikalala reiterated the crucial role of the EPWP in the country as a major driver of job creation. He emphasized its significant impact on poverty alleviation, skills development, clearing service backlogs, and reducing high unemployment rates.