22/06/2026
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) Hands Over Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) Participants to Emakhazeni Municipality in Push for Jobs & Cleaner Towns
Emakhazeni | 18 June 2026 – The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), in partnership with Emakhazeni Local Municipality, officially handed over a new cohort of Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) participants during a ceremony held at the Council Chamber on 18 June 2026 at 10H00. The Acting Speaker of Council, Cllr J Mabila, served as Program Director.
Building Partnerships for Service Delivery
The program opened with a welcome by Cllr J Mabila, followed by guest introductions from Mr. A. Nefale, Acting Senior Manager. Mr. S.C Nkosi, Acting Municipal Manager, outlined the municipality’s role in EPWP implementation and urged participants to take the opportunity seriously, work diligently, and act as ambassadors of service delivery.
Ms. N. Mtalana, Director: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), gave an overview of the program and partnership framework. She emphasized cohesion and reaffirmed both parties’ commitment to maintain good working relations for the program’s success.
*mpact Since 2023: 421 Opportunities Created
Ms. N. Ndlovu, EPWP Champion*, presented the program’s impact since inception in 2023. To date, 421 work opportunities have been created in Emakhazeni, providing skills development, work experience, confidence, and active participation. Participants are engaged in green initiatives, cleaning, and environmental protection. Ms. Ndlovu appreciated the collaboration with DFFE and noted that the program has helped alleviate poverty in the community.
Participants’ Voice: Longer Contracts & Responsibility
Four Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) participants shared their experiences. They requested *longer contracts for continuity and encouraged all participants to register to vote, saying elections will determine if programs like EPWP continue. They also highlighted how EPWP keeps youth away from drug abuse and teaches responsibility and discipline.
Mayor’s Keynote: Discipline, Dignity & 3 Promises
Executive Mayor Cllr N.A Mashele* delivered the keynote address, thanking the project and all stakeholders. She explained that the Council Chamber functions like a legislature where service delivery decisions are made. While raising concern over low rural representation, she welcomed those present and stressed that EPWP participants are ambassadors of the municipality, not just workers.
Noting that mines in Emakhazeni cannot absorb everyone, the Mayor said EPWP remains vital. She emphasized discipline and made 3 promises to participants: 1) Respect and dignity at work, 2) Safety with PPE provided, and 3) Fairness with stipends paid on time and correctly.
She urged *punctuality, pride in work, and ownership*, saying their conduct will serve as testimony for future job interviews. The Mayor celebrated women’s dominance in the program, stating “women feed families,” and encouraged everyone to save and start something after EPWP. She concluded by noting that towns are clean because of participants’ efforts.
Announcement
Cllr N. Nkosi, MMC Corporate Services, announced that a group photo will be taken outside using the backdrop banner for photo shooting. She*also requested that the terms/period of service be added, stating that this will assist underprivileged families with clarity and planning.
Closure
Cllr S.P Masango delivered the vote of thanks. He thanked everyone who facilitated the partnership, the organizers of the event, and all speakers for making the handover a success.
The event ended with a group photo of officials, Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) representatives, and the newly inducted Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) participants.
