Minister Macpherson Hosts Successful EPWP Listening Tour in Buffalo City

Article by Maanea Maselesele & Pictures by Caroline Mokotedi

05 Jun 2026

The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, held a successful Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) Listening Tour engagement in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality today.

The engagement forms part of the Department’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the EPWP as a pathway to sustainable employment, skills development, and long-term economic inclusion. It is also part of a national programme aimed at obtaining direct feedback from communities and stakeholders on the implementation and impact of the Programme.

Minister Macpherson emphasised the need for the EPWP to serve as a bridge to meaningful work opportunities, enhanced skills development, and broader economic participation. He further stressed the importance of ensuring inclusive access to the programme, including opportunities for South Africans over the age of 40, alongside youth beneficiaries.

Community members raised concerns regarding limited skills development opportunities, delayed stipend payments, shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE) and working tools, as well as unequal access to programme participation. Additional concerns were raised about coordination between municipalities and Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs).

The Minister indicated that the feedback received would inform ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening implementation systems, improving accountability, and enhancing the overall effectiveness of the programme.

The engagement brought together senior DPWI officials, representatives from local government, and traditional leadership structures. Participants included Nkosi Nompumelelo Ndlazi of the Eastern Cape Provincial House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, Chief Director: EPWP Infrastructure Sector, Mr Ignatius Ariyo, Chief Director: EPWP Partnership Support, Mr Musa Ntshani, DPWI Mthatha Regional Manager, Ms Nolizwi Hlengwa, and Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality Ward Councillor, Ms Lucille Benfield.