Members of the media gather in front of the podium to capture every word and movement of the State President.
Public Works staff members were responsible for the ushering of VIPs to their designated area during the event. Guest of honour President Thabo Mbeki was welcomed by more than 2 000 cheerfully singing delegates in a massive marquee tent pitched close to the area where the first beneficiaries of the EPWP programme were already at work.
President Thabo Mbeki addressing more than a thousand delegates at the recent Expanded Public Works Program launch in Gugulethu.
The EPWP is one of the Government's initiatives to try to bridge the gap between the growing economy and the large number of unskilled and unemployed people who have not yet enjoyed the benefits of economic development. Saamstaan, as it will be known in the Western Cape, involves creating temporary job opportunities for the unemployed, using public sector expenditure. A typical example of Saamstaan will be the upkeep of government buildings and grounds surrounding such buildings by employing and training unskilled people. R10 million has been set-aside in the current financial year to kick off the process.
Skills development is the cornerstone of this initiative. Sixty community contractors will eventually acquire business management and building skills through the Construction Seta training initiative. A skills transfer initiative will also form part of Saamstaan, in terms of which our department will utilise unemployed graduates to mentor emerging contractors.
Public Works snatched a prime position in the VIP area for displaying its 10 years of democracy exhibition and marketing material. Here the head of the Department, Thami Manyathi, and Branch Head Richard Petersen make sure that our branding is up to standard.
Saamstaan is also about building dignity and pride. Most township roads do not have proper drainage. Saamstaan will help to change this situation by constructing proper drainage systems, which will at the same time help to put food on many local residents' tables. Saamstaan, led by the Department of Transport and Public Works in the Western Cape, will therefore be a joint effort of provincial departments, local government and the people to stem the tide of poverty and underdevelopment.
Enquiries:Chris Prins
Manager: Communication
Department of Transport and Public Works
Tel: 021 483 2132
Email: cwprins@pgwc.gov.za
