ON May 4, councillor André Beetge welcomed the new employment programme on behalf of eThekwini Municipality, launched by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure. This follows revelations that the City’s Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) was marred by corruption.

Also read: Municipality faces sex-for-jobs allegations

Called Working on Infrastructure, Beetge said the pilot programme marks a significant step towards strengthening the EPWP and ensuring that it delivers a meaningful impact in fighting unemployment.

The EPWP is an initiative that provides temporary work, income relief, and skills training to the unemployed. It was flagged by the Auditor General of SA for irregularities that included payments to deceased individuals and payments to employees who do not exist. To find employment in the programme, job seekers were allegedly made to provide sexual favours to those in charge of the employment process or prove their political affiliation.

Beetge said eThekwini recognises that infrastructure development is not just about brick and mortar, but about building lives, restoring dignity, and creating sustainable livelihoods.

“This initiative aligns with our broader vision of a city that is inclusive, economically vibrant, and responsive to the needs of its people. The collaboration between government, private sector partners, and civil society organisations represented here today is commendable. It is through such partnerships that we can unlock real opportunities and ensure that programmes like this are impactful, scalable, and sustainable,” said Beetge.

Also read: eThekwini caught overcharging ratepayers

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson said those seeking employment in the Working on Infrastructure programme will be able to register, create a profile, add their skills and qualifications, apply for opportunities, and be matched more fairly.

“It means we can verify people. It means we can track participation. It means we can see who is in the programme, where they are placed, what training they have received, and what happens to them after they leave. It means opportunities should no longer be reserved for friends and family,” said Macpherson.

He added that the days of demanding bribes and sexual favours in exchange for jobs were over.

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