MINISTER DEAN MACPHERSON ENGAGES CLOETESVILLE COMMUNITY IN COMMEMORATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS DAY

Article by Shudufhadzo Mudau, Pictures by Caroline Mokotedi

23 March 2026

The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, engaged with the Cloetesville community in Stellenbosch as part of the commemoration of Human Rights Day, reaffirming government’s commitment to inclusive development and social justice.

The engagement brought together key stakeholders from across the built environment sector to interact with community members and address critical issues related to infrastructure delivery, economic participation, and empowerment.

Minister Macpherson was accompanied by the Executive Mayor of Stellenbosch, Jeremy Fasser, along with Chief Executive Officers from key entities, including Bongani Dladla of the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), Zimbini Hills of the Independent Development Trust (IDT), and Msizi Myeza of the Council for the Built Environment (CBE). Their presence underscored the importance of collaboration between government and industry leaders in advancing sustainable infrastructure development.

In his address, Minister Macpherson highlighted the significance of Human Rights Day as a reminder of the fundamental rights to dignity, equality, and access to basic services. He further emphasised the need to modernise the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) to ensure it delivers dignified and sustainable employment opportunities, while contributing meaningfully to skills development and long-term economic inclusion.

Stakeholders from across the built environment sector were also in attendance, showcasing infrastructure opportunities and initiatives aimed at fostering local economic development. The engagement provided a valuable platform to strengthen partnerships, promote skills development, and create pathways for community members to participate meaningfully in infrastructure projects.

The Department reaffirmed its commitment to building state capacity and ensuring that infrastructure delivery contributes to economic growth, job creation, and an improved quality of life for all South Africans.

This engagement forms part of government’s ongoing efforts to bring services closer to communities, while promoting transparency, accountability, and collaboration in the delivery of public services.