Public Works Empowerment Programmes - From Temporary Relief To Lasting Impact

Reforming South Africa's Expanded Public Works Programme For Sustainable Empowerment

By Jessie Taylor

South Africa’s Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), a flagship initiative of the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), has provided much-needed temporary employment for millions of citizens for the past two decades. Introduced in 2004, the programme was designed as a short-term measure to reduce unemployment and alleviate poverty.

However, recent reforms signal a bold new vision: turning the EPWP into a catalyst for sustainable livelihoods and economic empowerment.

A Programme In Transition

Launched to address South Africa’s high unemployment rates, the EPWP initially focused on providing work opportunities in the infrastructure, environment, and social services sectors. Over time, it became a vital income source for many vulnerable households. Despite its successes, the programme has also faced challenges, including allegations of political interference and the temporary nature of the opportunities it offers.

Recognising these issues, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has embarked on a major reform drive. Minister Dean Macpherson has initiated a nationwide listening tour to engage directly with EPWP participants, community leaders, and implementing agents. This consultative approach is informing a comprehensive strategy to improve the programme’s transparency, efficiency, and impact.

In April 2024, the DPWI launched Phase V of the EPWP, with an ambitious target: to create five million work opportunities by 2029. According to the department, Phase V will prioritise sectors that offer potential for long-term skills development and economic integration, such as waste management, road maintenance, and public facility upgrades.

“We want the EPWP to move beyond simply providing temporary jobs,” said Minister Macpherson. Our goal is to equip participants with skills that will enable them to enter the formal economy, start businesses, and contribute meaningfully to the country’s growth.”

An essential component of this new approach is the integration of accredited training programmes within EPWP projects. Participants will now have greater access to formal skills development, including technical training, entrepreneurial workshops, and digital literacy programmes. This focus aims to bridge the gap between short-term employment and sustainable economic participation.

Addressing Systemic Challenges

For years, criticisms have been levelled at the EPWP over allegations of nepotism, political gatekeeping, and irregularities in recruitment. In response, the DPWI has committed to introducing a transparent and accountable recruitment process.

Minister Macpherson’s listening tour revealed widespread frustration among participants over perceived unfairness and lack of career progression opportunities within the programme. The department plans to establish an independent oversight mechanism to monitor recruitment and project implementation to address this.

Furthermore, COSATU recently voiced its concerns about abuses within the EPWP, calling for stronger protections for workers and a shift towards permanent, dignified employment opportunities. The DPWI has acknowledged these concerns and included organised labour as a key stakeholder in its reform consultations.

A notable feature of Phase V is the emphasis on partnerships between government, the private sector, and civil society. The DPWI is exploring collaboration opportunities with private companies to create training pathways, internship opportunities, and post-EPWP employment.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) praised South Africa’s move towards creating an EPWP Community of Practice, aimed at fostering knowledgesharing, innovation, and continuous improvement within the programme.

Additionally, the DPWI has pledged to leverage technology to enhance programme administration, participant tracking, and the evaluation of outcomes. The goal is to ensure that each participant’s journey can be monitored, from initial recruitment to post-programme placement or entrepreneurial success.

Another reform priority is greater inclusivity. Women, youth, and people with disabilities will receive focused support within the EPWP framework. The department plans to set minimum participation targets for these groups and tailor training programmes to meet their specific needs. As South Africa celebrates 30 years of democracy in 2024, the transformation of the EPWP represents a timely opportunity to reaffirm the country’s commitment to social justice and inclusive economic growth. The reforms promise to turn the EPWP into more than just a safety net — but a stepping stone towards permanent empowerment.

In the words of Minister Macpherson: “Our mission is clear: we must build a South Africa where everyone has the tools, the opportunities, and the hope to create a better future for themselves and their communities.”

If the reforms are successfully implemented, South Africa’s EPWP could emerge as a global model for how public works programmes can evolve from providing temporary relief to delivering lasting, transformative empowerment.

Sources: Engineering News | International Labour Organisation | COSATU | South African Government