Durban: Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson is expected to visit KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) on Monday to launch the next leg of his Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) listening tour. Macpherson will be accompanied by KZN Provincial Legislature Deputy Speaker Mmabatho Tembe, KZN MEC for Public Works Martin Meyer, uMngeni Local Municipality Mayor Chris Pappas, and Deputy Mayor Sandile Mnikathi.

According to South African Government News Agency, the EPWP listening tour has already highlighted several issues during its stop in the Eastern Cape, including allegations of patronage, corruption, and jobs being reserved for political party members due to the manner in which EPWP jobs are allocated. The listening tour aims to gather feedback from communities about their experiences with the EPWP, addressing these allegations and other concerns.

The upcoming event will serve as an opportunity for the Minister to engage with the local community and understand the challenges they face with the EPWP. It
will also contribute to shaping the Minister’s vision of reimagining the programme to better serve the public. The event is scheduled to take place at 10.30 am at the Howick West Community Hall in the uMngeni Local Municipality.