Walkerville community benefits from EPWP

The Gauteng Department of Social Development’s (DSD) Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) has proved to be a lifeline for many youth across the province, equipping them with skills, creating job opportunities and providing income support.

As a key government initiative, the programme helps alleviate poverty and fosters economic upliftment and long-term career development.

Its impact was evident during a joint oversight visit by the Gauteng DSD and the Department of Public Works at the Adonai Fellowship Community Care Centre in Walkerville on March 26. They evaluated the programme’s effectiveness and assessed how it continues to change lives.

According to Seipati Motlabane, a social work manager for the EPWP, the programme is instrumental in empowering youth because it provides access to work and training opportunities that equip them with skills and experience for future employment.

“The EPWP is not just a temporary solution but a stepping stone for young people to gain meaningful work experience and transition into formal employment. It remains a vital programme in addressing unemployment, reducing poverty and accelerating service delivery in our communities,” said Motlabane.

The Adonai Fellowship Community Care Centre is one of many organisations benefiting from the EPWP. Project manager Diana Nyazuzu highlighted how the programme had positively impacted children and unemployed youth in Walkerville and the surrounding areas.

“Currently, 131 children directly benefit from the EPWP programme, and with additional support from local businesses, we have extended our reach to 245 children,” said Nyazuzu.

“We are grateful for the funding from the Gauteng DSD because it allows us to change lives and uplift unemployed youth.”

Nyazuzu, a former EPWP participant, expressed appreciation for the initiative, saying many young people who had passed through the programme were now in formal employment, studying at universities or pursuing careers as teachers and professionals.

“Since our establishment in 2004 and our funding from 2006, we have seen first-hand how the EPWP transforms lives. Many of our former beneficiaries have stable jobs, proving this programme is a real game-changer.”

Mpho Sibiya from the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure commended the community care centre for its dedication and professionalism. She said the organisation had demonstrated effective use of resources, ensuring that funds allocated directly benefit the community.

“We are pleased with the positive results and the professionalism displayed by the Adonai Fellowship. This gives us confidence that the EPWP is making a real impact and will continue to support families in impoverished townships,” said Sibiya.

As the EPWP grows, it remains a source of hope for many young South Africans, proving that lives can be positively transformed with the right opportunities and support.