DPWI Concludes 2026 NAPROV Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation meeting

Article by Motlhabane Motlhabane, Pictures by Rosslyn Mahlaole

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) Monitoring and Evaluation Chief Directorate, under the leadership of the Deputy Director-General for Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC), Lwazi Mahlangu, concluded the National and Provincial Departments of Public Works Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (NAPROV PME) meeting held in Pretoria from 19 to 21 August 2026.

The NAPROV forum meets quarterly to assess sector performance, consider performance reports and identify measures to address issues affecting service delivery across the public works sector. The forum reports progress to the Minister and Members of the Executive Council (MinMEC) through the Intergovernmental Relations Branch, which serves as its secretariat.

NAPROV meetings are held on a rotational basis across the nine provinces, providing an opportunity for national and provincial departments to collectively assess sector performance and focus on areas requiring improvement.

The three-day session focused primarily on the development and alignment of sector-specific indicators for the 2026/27 financial year. Representatives from all nine provincial departments participated in the planning session, with high levels of engagement and participation throughout the proceedings.

A key outcome of the meeting was an agreement on five sector indicators that will be monitored and reported on during quarterly performance reporting sessions. The agreed indicators are intended to strengthen consistency in reporting, improve performance monitoring and provide a common basis for assessing progress across the public works sector.

Strengthening EPWP Reporting

The final discussions focused particularly on reporting relating to the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). DDG for EPWP, Ms Carmen-Joy Abrahams, provided valuable clarity and context on the programme, including its role in creating work opportunities and enabling beneficiaries to participate in the programme more than once, where applicable.

DDG Abrahams further offered to facilitate a dedicated workshop to provide stakeholders with detailed information on the positive changes and developments within the EPWP programme. The proposed workshop is expected to contribute towards a common understanding of EPWP reporting requirements and improve the quality and consistency of information submitted by provinces.

The placement and reporting arrangements relating to EPWP within the Western Cape Province were also identified as an area requiring further clarification. This matter will be addressed to ensure that the programme's placement and performance are correctly reflected for reporting purposes.

The successful conclusion of the NAPROV PME planning session marks an important step towards strengthening coordinated performance monitoring across the national and provincial public works sector. The agreed indicators and follow-up engagements will provide a basis for more consistent reporting, improved accountability and enhanced sector performance during the 2026/27 financial year.