UPSCALING THE EXPANDED
Date
2011-05-13
Authors
Maja, Princess Zamaswazi
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Abstract
The main purpose of this explanatory study was to examine how programme planning, budgeting and political commitment influence the implementation of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) infrastructure projects in the City of Johannesburg. With the high rate of unemployment in South Africa, the Expanded Public Works Programme provides a platform for creating employment opportunities and training for unskilled people in South Africa.
The research found that EPWP projects implemented by the City are dependent upon each entity to prioritise as there is no separate budget for EPWP in the City. However, since Joburg Water continues to receive the second highest capital budget allocation in the city, the research found that there was huge potential for Joburg Water to expand EPWP job opportunities. There has been minimum support for EPWP by top political leadership and a lack of understanding of the purpose and role of EPWP. Furthermore, there has been a lack of coherent EPWP policy management and co-ordination within the City and its entities.
The research concluded that improved EPWP implementation should be enforced through a new EPWP Policy that would require all entities to set targets for the programme and be monitored as part of the Balanced Score Cards of each manager. The level of understanding of EPWP among politicians needs to be strengthened for them to provide adequate support to the EPWP. In the City, the EPWP requires a long-term programme approach so that job duration is longer and training is properly structured. The research also found that the City would need to strengthen co-ordination of the EPWP Programme among entities.
Description
MM - P&DM
Keywords
Expanded Public Works Programme, Public works, Johannesburg