This report comprises an input into the inclusive cities annual report focusing on progress in implementing the Expanded Public Works Programme [EPWP] by the nine member cities of the SACN and other urban Municipalities. The EPWP is a nation-wide government-led initiative aimed at drawing a significant number of unemployed South Africans into productive work in a manner that will enable them to gain skills and increase their capacity to earn income. The initiative is being implemented through established government structures and budgets. The EPWP is being implemented in four sectors [Infrastructure, Social, Economic and Environmental] and a specific Government Department has been designated to lead the implementation of the EPWP in each sector1 . The implementation of the EPWP is being coordinated by the Department of Public Works (DPW) which has established a dedicated unit [the EPWP Unit] to perform this function.

This report outlines general practice and progress by Municipalities in the implementation of the EPWP. Best practice examples are shown in boxes throughout the report.

This report includes:

• Methodology
• Background to the EPWP
• Organisational arrangements of the SACN Cities in respect of the EPWP
• Progress in implementation
• Challenges faced
• Conclusions