Eliminating EPWP Corruption will Lead to Job Opportunities for All

Statement by Tammy Colley, MPL – DA KZN Spokesperson on Public Works and Infrastructure:

The DA in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) is deeply concerned by revelations of serious irregularities within the eThekwini Municipality Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), as revealed yesterday during a press briefing by Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Dean Macpherson and provincial Public Works and Infrastructure MEC, Martin Meyer.

The briefing comes after the Auditor-General’s findings, which include payments for work not performed, the existence of ghost beneficiaries and individuals receiving financial support they were never entitled to.

The EPWP was established as a critical poverty relief initiative, aimed at reducing unemployment through temporary work opportunities, skills development, and providing much-needed income to vulnerable South Africans.

However, over time, this programme has become extremely politicised, with opportunities reserved for connected individuals rather than those most in need. This undermines both its integrity and its intended impact.

It is deeply troubling that a programme designed to alleviate poverty has instead, in some instances, been exploited to benefit the undeserving. Such abuse not only robs vulnerable communities of opportunities but also erodes public trust in government initiatives.

The DA in KZN welcomes Minister Macpherson’s commitment to restoring the EPWP to its original purpose – one that genuinely alleviates poverty while equipping participants with skills that improve their long-term employability. We further welcome MEC Meyer’s commitment to strengthening oversight within KZN’s Department of Public Works and Infrastructure. Ensuring accountability and transparency in the implementation of EPWP is essential if it is to deliver meaningful outcomes.

As a responsible partner within KZN’s Government of Provincial Unity (GPU), the DA is committed to ensuring that the abuse of public funds, intended to uplift the most vulnerable in our society, comes to an end.