This Content is for Subscribers Only
The Portfolio Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure raised urgent concerns on 11 Novemver 2025, during a briefing with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) in Cape Town. Members said complaints from across the country point to possible political interference and poor treatment of workers in the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). They called for tighter oversight and better support systems for participants exiting the programme.
What Happened
The committee said it has received several reports of alleged patronage linked to EPWP recruitment. Some members also witnessed troubling behaviour involving participants while conducting oversight visits.
During the briefing, the DPWI outlined how beneficiaries are trained and how they progress once they leave the programme. However, lawmakers said gaps remain.
Committee Chairperson Ms Carol Phiri stressed the importance of the programme, saying:
“EPWP is one of the few government programmes that directly touches the lives of the most disadvantaged people across the country and has changed many lives. It is vital that it is properly managed and monitored.”
She added that the state must be able to track what happens to workers once they exit EPWP and ensure they receive support in finding new opportunities.
Official Response
The committee welcomed the DPWI’s acknowledgement of ongoing challenges and its commitment to review recruitment practices.
It also raised concern over recurring cases where workers do not receive their stipends and struggle to get answers when they enquire about payments. Members said this issue is worsened by inconsistent processes across public employment programmes.
The committee recommended a standardised payment system to stop participants from moving between programmes in search of better reliability.
In addition, MPs urged the department to ensure that all workers receive proper tools and equipment so they can perform their duties safely and effectively.
Community Impact
According to the committee, many problems within the EPWP stem from weak monitoring and oversight. Members warned that unless those systems are strengthened, the programme will fall short of its purpose creating opportunities and improving livelihoods for vulnerable communities.
The committee said better supervision will help ensure participants carry out their duties and that the programme achieves meaningful results on the ground.
