Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) sign-up events in various communities throughout Cape Town are ensuring that unemployed residents stand a chance to benefit from short-term work opportunities.
About 29 500 unemployed residents have joined the EPWP jobseekers database since the recent registration drive started in July 2022. A total of 17 outreach events have been held since the City’s new financial year, across the following communities:
- Retreat
- Kensington
- Sir Lowry’s Pass Village
- Parkwood
- Bonteheuwel
- Macassar
- Atlantis
- Matroosfontein
- Lotus River
- Mamre
- Valhalla Park
- Scottsdene
- Joe Slovo
- Fisantekraal
- Hangberg
- Philippi
- Bardale/Fairdale
‘The EPWP provides an invaluable stop-gap for unemployed residents until there are jobs available in the formal economy. It allows residents to earn a subsistence income while at the same time gaining valuable work experience that can unlock better opportunities in future. The number of new sign-ups is testament to the value of this programme to our society, and I am optimistic that we can continue to increase the reach of the programme in years to come.
‘The programme has in the past been able to create opportunities in diverse areas such as call centre workers, Law Enforcement Auxiliary officers, data capturers to list a few. We are also ensuring that every EPWP opportunity is coupled with a skills training opportunity in order to upskill our residents to get the required skills for the job market once their short-term contracts end with us, last week we hosted the CEO of LGSETA, Mr Ineeleng Molete to discuss a possible partnership with EPWP in the area of Skills development. We hope that we will be able to report soon regarding a memorandum of understanding,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste Management, Alderman Grant Twigg.
How to register
Residents don’t have to wait for registration drives only.
Jobseekers can register on the City’s EPWP jobseekers database at their local Subcouncil which makes them eligible for available short-term job opportunities in that area. EPWP opportunities are allocated on a randomised basis.
What to know about EPWP registration:
- Visit your local Subcouncil to register your name with the Jobseekers Database. Please bring a copy of your CV, your ID document or a valid South African work permit.
- It is free. The City will not ask community members to pay for work opportunities or pay to apply for a work opportunity.
For more information, contact the EPWP HelpDesk on 021 444 0032 or email epwp.help@capetown.gov.za