MINISTER MACPHERSON LAUNCHES THE SECOND PROVINCIAL PILOT ROLLOUT OF THE WORKING ON INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMME

Article by Maanea Maselesele, Pictures by Caroline Mokotedi

23 July 2026

Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, officially launched the second provincial pilot of the Working on Infrastructure (WoI) Programme in Burgersfort, Fetakgomo-Tubatse Local Municipality, Limpopo, where he was joined by the Limpopo MEC for Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure, Mr Tonny Ernest Rachoene.

Ahead of the launch, Minister Macpherson paid a courtesy visit to Her Majesty Queen Manyaku Thulare, Queen Regent of the BaPedi Kingdom. His visit aimed to align political and executive leadership on the objectives, expectations, and operating framework of the Working on Infrastructure, Installation, Repair and Maintenance (IRM) Pilot Programme, while setting the tone for a collaborative and delivery-focused partnership.

Today’s launch builds on the successful rollout of the programme under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), which was introduced in KwaZulu-Natal in May 2026. The launch marks another important milestone in government’s efforts to transform the EPWP into a programme that delivers sustainable employment opportunities while strengthening the delivery and maintenance of public infrastructure.

Delivering the keynote address, Minister Macpherson said “the WoI programme must create a pipeline of young people whose skills, experience and progress can be tracked so that employers can identify, hire and absorb them into the economy.”

The event demonstrated how the WoI Programme will be implemented in Limpopo. Young people were guided through the SAYouth.mobi registration process and introduced to the IRM delivery model, which combines technical training, work-readiness support, mentorship, and practical workplace experience.

The Working on Infrastructure Pilot introduces a new approach to public employment through the IRM model. Participants will be equipped with the skills, experience, and support needed to pursue sustainable careers in the infrastructure sector while contributing to the maintenance and improvement of public infrastructure in their communities.

The Minister added that the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) will be transformed from a short-term survival mechanism into a long-term pathway to sustainable employment and economic opportunity.