Public Works and Infrastructure Organizes Two-Day Indaba for EPWP Phase 5 in Pretoria - 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.

Public Works and Infrastructure Organizes Two-Day Indaba for EPWP Phase 5 in Pretoria

4 mins read
e p

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure is hosting a two-day indaba in Pretoria from 10-11 October 2023 to evaluate the Expanded Public Works Programme’s Phase 4 and plan for Phase 5. Stakeholders from various sectors, including government, civil society, and the private sector, will create a business plan for the new phase, with the goal of reducing unemployment, providing skills training, and social services. By exchanging knowledge and experiences, participants will shape the program’s future, ensuring its continued effectiveness in addressing South Africa’s socio-economic challenges.

From 10-11 October 2023, the Minister and Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), Honourable Sihle Zikalala and Honourable Bernice Swarts, will lead a two-day indaba in Pretoria. The gathering’s central focus is the reconceptualization and redesign of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) for the future. Stakeholders from various sectors will join together to brainstorm and develop a business plan for the program’s fifth phase.

The EPWP has been a crucial initiative in South Africa, offering job opportunities and skills development for the unemployed. As the program enters a new stage, reflecting on its past achievements and challenges is necessary to ensure its ongoing effectiveness in meeting the nation’s socio-economic requirements.

The indaba will begin on day one with an opening address from Minister Zikalala at 9:00 am at GCIS Tshedimosetso House in Hatfield, Pretoria. Deputy Minister Swarts will close the event at 10:00 am on the second day. Media representatives are encouraged to attend and cover the proceedings.

Evaluating EPWP Phase 4 and Planning for Phase 5

This indaba will evaluate the successes of EPWP Phase 4 and identify areas for growth and innovation as the program transitions to Phase 5. Throughout the meeting, stakeholders representing various levels of government, civil society, and the private sector will contribute to the creation of a business plan for the new phase. The final plan will be submitted for Cabinet approval before the year’s end.

The EPWP has played a significant role in reducing unemployment, particularly for South Africa’s youth. Through temporary work opportunities, skills training, and social services, the program has been a vital part of the country’s overall strategy for addressing poverty, inequality, and joblessness.

A successful indaba will ensure the continued progress and evolution of the EPWP as it prepares for its fifth phase. Stakeholders will participate in meaningful discussions about the program’s future direction and contribute their expertise in formulating a solid business plan. By gathering perspectives from various sectors, the meeting aims to establish a comprehensive and inclusive strategy for the program’s next phase.

Reflecting on Past Successes and Shaping the Future of EPWP

The EPWP has experienced several transformations over the years to stay relevant in South Africa’s evolving socio-economic environment. The first phase, initiated in 2004, concentrated on infrastructure, environment, culture, and social sectors. Subsequent iterations of the program extended to include non-state initiatives and the incorporation of community-based projects.

The indaba provides an excellent platform for participants to exchange their experiences and insights, helping to shape the EPWP’s future. By engaging in open dialogue and collaboration, stakeholders from diverse backgrounds can contribute to the program’s evolution, ensuring its continued value in addressing South Africa’s pressing socio-economic challenges.

As the EPWP embarks on its fifth phase, the indaba in Pretoria serves as an essential opportunity for stakeholders to reflect on the program’s successes and challenges to date. By pooling their collective knowledge, they will collaborate to create a comprehensive business plan for Phase 5, guiding the initiative’s future. This plan will play a crucial role in supporting the ongoing growth and effectiveness of the EPWP in addressing South Africa’s unemployed population‘s needs.

In conclusion, as South Africa advances in tackling its socio-economic challenges, the EPWP remains a beacon of hope for many jobless citizens. The upcoming indaba will be a pivotal moment for the program’s future, with stakeholders uniting to ensure its continued success and relevance. Through teamwork and shared expertise, the event will lay the groundwork for the EPWP’s next phase, ensuring the program remains a vital resource for many South Africans seeking work and skills development opportunities.

What is the purpose of the two-day indaba being hosted by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure?

The purpose of the two-day indaba is to evaluate the Expanded Public Works Programme’s Phase 4 and plan for Phase 5. Stakeholders from various sectors will create a business plan for the new phase, with the goal of reducing unemployment, providing skills training, and social services.

Who will be participating in the indaba?

Stakeholders from various sectors, including government, civil society, and the private sector, will be participating in the indaba.

When and where will the indaba take place?

The indaba will take place on 10-11 October 2023 in Pretoria, with the opening address from Minister Zikalala at 9:00 am at GCIS Tshedimosetso House in Hatfield, Pretoria.

What is the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)?

The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) is an initiative in South Africa that offers job opportunities and skills development for the unemployed. It has been a crucial part of the country’s overall strategy for addressing poverty, inequality, and joblessness.

What is the goal of the EPWP?

The goal of the EPWP is to reduce unemployment, provide skills training, and social services.

What will be the outcome of the indaba?

The outcome of the indaba will be a business plan for the EPWP’s Phase 5. The plan will be submitted for Cabinet approval before the year’s end.

What is the history of the EPWP?

The EPWP has experienced several transformations over the years to stay relevant in South Africa’s evolving socio-economic environment. The first phase, initiated in 2004, concentrated on infrastructure, environment, culture, and social sectors. Subsequent iterations of the program extended to include non-state initiatives and the incorporation of community-based projects.

Why is the indaba important for the EPWP’s future?

The indaba is important for the EPWP’s future as it provides an opportunity for stakeholders to reflect on the program’s successes and challenges to date and collaborate to create a comprehensive business plan for its next phase. By pooling their collective knowledge, stakeholders can ensure the program’s continued value in addressing South Africa’s pressing socio-economic challenges.

Previous Story

Preserving National Pride and Identity: The Pressing Need for Anti-Doping Laws in South Africa

Next Story

Western Cape Sets High Governance Standards with Exceptional Audit Outcomes

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.