Cape Town's Recognition for Excellence in Public Works Programme Development - Cape Town Today
Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

Cape Town’s Recognition for Excellence in Public Works Programme Development

4 mins read
e

Cape Town’s Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) offers temporary job opportunities in various sectors to tackle unemployment and stimulate development. The city has received recognition and accolades for its superior performance among municipalities and commitment to effectively implementing the national government program. The EPWP has generated over 140,000 temporary work opportunities since 2011 and contributes to Cape Town’s financial stability and growth. The programme fulfils a dual purpose of offering employment and boosting the city’s economy.

What is Cape Town’s Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)?

Cape Town’s EPWP offers temporary job opportunities in various sectors to tackle unemployment and stimulate development. It includes home-based care, substance abuse programs, early childhood development initiatives, and sports and recreational activities. The city has received recognition and accolades for its superior performance among municipalities and commitment to effectively implementing the national government program. The EPWP has generated over 140,000 temporary work opportunities since 2011 and contributes to Cape Town’s financial stability and growth.

Lively, culturally-rich, and boasting dramatic landscapes, Cape Town has added another feather to its cap. This time, the city is being celebrated for its remarkable development in its Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). The Kamoso Awards, a respected national platform applauding exceptional performance in the public sector, have honoured the city with the designation of ‘Best Municipality for Excellence in the Implementation of the Expanded Public Works Programme: EPWP Social Sector’. This significant recognition was given on November 26, 2014, further underscoring Cape Town’s dedication to growth and advancement.

A Committed Response to Unemployment and Community Development

The EPWP of Cape Town has been a proactive solution to tackle unemployment and stimulate development in the area. The programme is an intricately designed and carried out initiative offering temporary job opportunities in a variety of sectors. These include home-based care, substance abuse programmes, and early childhood development initiatives. The programme has been crucial in aiding and rehabilitating homeless individuals by providing them with job opportunities, running awareness campaigns, and coordinating holiday programmes. The influence of EPWP is not limited to basic necessities but also reaches into the realm of sports and recreational activities. This represents the city’s comprehensive approach towards development.

Superior Performance Among Municipalities and Previous Laurels

When put in competition with other municipalities, Cape Town shone the brightest. This is not the first time the city has received accolades at the Kamoso Awards. In 2013, the city took home awards for ‘Best Municipality in the Social Sector’ and ‘Best Metropolitan in the Environment & Culture Sector’. These awards symbolize the city’s unwavering commitment to optimally use funding and programmes to foster training and skills development across multiple sectors.

Councillor Suzette Little, Mayoral Committee Member for Social Development and Early Childhood Development, lauded the city’s achievements. She stated, “These achievements reflect the City’s determination and effort in implementing this national government programme.” It is this resolute commitment and innovative approach that has enabled the city to effectively build on the national government’s programme blueprint. The city was the first municipality to introduce an induction booklet, implement a standard operating procedure, and design an internal contract management and payroll process. The city also significantly raised the daily stipend from R75 to R100, reflecting its commitment to improving its residents’ lives.

Significant Impact and Dual Purpose of the EPWP

Since the introduction of the EPWP in 2011, the programme has generated over 140,000 temporary work opportunities for unemployed city residents. By the end of June 2016, this figure was projected to surpass 180,000. Such large-scale impact bears witness to the effectiveness and reach of the EPWP.

The Expanded Public Works Programme of Cape Town fulfils a dual purpose. It offers temporary employment to as many unemployed residents as possible, thereby creating a favourable cycle of opportunity and experience. Simultaneously, it boosts the city’s economy, contributing to Cape Town’s financial stability and growth.

In summary, Cape Town’s latest recognition stretches beyond the successful execution of the EPWP. It is a validation of the city’s adaptability and forward-thinking approach to resolving unemployment and promoting development. The sustained success of the EPWP and its transformative effect on the city and its residents signifies Cape Town’s resilience and dedication to progress.

1. What is Cape Town’s Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)?

Cape Town’s EPWP offers temporary job opportunities in various sectors to tackle unemployment and stimulate development. It includes home-based care, substance abuse programs, early childhood development initiatives, and sports and recreational activities.

2. How has Cape Town been recognized for its EPWP?

Cape Town has been recognized for its EPWP by the Kamoso Awards, a respected national platform applauding exceptional performance in the public sector, with the designation of ‘Best Municipality for Excellence in the Implementation of the Expanded Public Works Programme: EPWP Social Sector’.

3. What is the impact of Cape Town’s EPWP?

Since the introduction of the EPWP in 2011, the programme has generated over 140,000 temporary work opportunities for unemployed city residents. By the end of June 2016, this figure was projected to surpass 180,000. The programme fulfils a dual purpose of offering employment and boosting the city’s economy.

4. How does Cape Town’s EPWP compare to other municipalities?

Cape Town has shown superior performance among municipalities and has received accolades at the Kamoso Awards. In 2013, the city took home awards for ‘Best Municipality in the Social Sector’ and ‘Best Metropolitan in the Environment & Culture Sector’.

5. What is the significance of Cape Town’s commitment to the EPWP?

Cape Town’s commitment to the EPWP has enabled the city to effectively build on the national government’s programme blueprint. The city was the first municipality to introduce an induction booklet, implement a standard operating procedure, and design an internal contract management and payroll process. The city also significantly raised the daily stipend from R75 to R100, reflecting its commitment to improving its residents’ lives.

6. What is the dual purpose of Cape Town’s EPWP?

Cape Town’s EPWP fulfils a dual purpose. It offers temporary employment to as many unemployed residents as possible, thereby creating a favourable cycle of opportunity and experience. Simultaneously, it boosts the city’s economy, contributing to Cape Town’s financial stability and growth.

Previous Story

A Historical Achievement for Cape Town’s Electricity Department

Next Story

Recognising Cape Town’s Shark Spotters Programme

Latest from Blog

The Rise of Vaping Among South African Teenagers

Vaping is quickly becoming a popular habit among South African teenagers, drawn by sweet fruity flavors, flashy packaging, and the buzz on social media. Many teens vape to fit in with friends, feel cool and rebellious, or to escape stress and anxiety. However, what seems like harmless fun can quickly turn into addiction, affecting their health and wellbeing. Despite the risks, vaping is often misunderstood, making it harder for families and schools to stop this growing trend. It’s a serious challenge that needs everyone—parents, teachers, and leaders—to work together to protect young people’s futures.

South African Agriculture and the Changing Winds of Trade

Since 2000, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) has helped South African farmers sell fruits like avocados, wine, and citrus to the United States without paying extra taxes. This chance boosted farming communities, especially small farmers and women, by opening up new markets and encouraging growth. But recent U.S. tariffs threaten these gains, making it harder for farmers to compete and putting many livelihoods at risk. Still, South African farmers remain strong and hopeful, working hard to face these new challenges and keep their communities alive.

Trapped Abroad: Ashley Oosthuizen’s Journey Through Thailand’s Legal Labyrinth

Ashley Oosthuizen, a young South African woman, went to Thailand chasing her dreams but ended up trapped in a nightmare. After unknowingly signing for a package with illegal drugs, she was arrested and sentenced to over 13 years in prison, despite being innocent. Her mother moved to Thailand to fight for her, sharing Ashley’s story with the world and gaining support. Even when the real criminal confessed, the Thai courts kept Ashley behind bars. Her story is a powerful reminder of how quickly life can change and the risks travelers face in foreign countries.

Shadows Along the Hennops: Three SAPS Officers Vanish and a River Gives Up Its Secrets

In April 2025, three South African police officers disappeared during a trip and were later found dead near the Hennops River, along with two others. Their white car vanished into the river’s dark, swirling waters, hiding clues and sparking a deep mystery. Families and the public mourned, demanding answers amid fears of foul play. The quiet river, once peaceful, now holds heavy secrets and reminds the nation of the dangers police face and the urgent need for justice.

Cape Town’s Boatbuilding: Crafting a Legacy on the Waterfront

Cape Town’s boatbuilding industry is a shining example of skill and tradition mixed with new technology. It creates beautiful, strong boats that are loved worldwide and supports thousands of jobs in the city. But now, new tariffs on exports, especially to the US, threaten this important work and the people who depend on it. Despite these challenges, boatbuilders, city leaders, and innovators are coming together to protect this proud craft. Their passion and teamwork fuel hope that Cape Town’s boatbuilding legacy will sail on strong into the future.