The Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport (DPWRT) hosted a landmark Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Framework Workshop on Tuesday,June 02 bringing together key stakeholders committed to advancing the meaningful inclusion of Persons with Disabilities within the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).
The workshop was attended by representatives from the Office of the Premier Disability Desk, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, as well as local municipalities across the Gert Sibande District.
The engagement focused on strengthening collaboration among government institutions to ensure that Persons with Disabilities are not only represented in the EPWP but are empowered to participate fully and meaningfully in the opportunities created through the programme.
During discussions, stakeholders acknowledged that despite progress in expanding access to work opportunities, Persons with Disabilities remain underrepresented in the EPWP.
Several challenges were identified, including unmet participation targets, incomplete disability declarations, inconsistent reporting practices and coordination gaps among government structures.
Participants agreed that addressing these challenges requires a coordinated and accountable approach.
The workshop therefore moved beyond identifying obstacles and focused on developing practical solutions to improve disability inclusion across the province.
Among the key resolutions adopted were the redesign of EPWP projects to better accommodate the needs and capabilities of Persons with Disabilities, the integration of transversal officials into recruitment processes and the implementation of awareness campaigns through SASSA-supported radio platforms to reach communities more effectively.
The department also committed to strengthening accountability by engaging Municipal Managers and Executive Mayors directly on disability participation targets.
In addition, progress on disability inclusion will become a standing agenda item at sector and district forum meetings to ensure continuous monitoring and reporting.
To further encourage progress, excellence in advancing disability inclusion within the EPWP will be recognised through the prestigious Kamoso Awards.
The department said the engagements form part of a broader commitment to building an EPWP that leaves no one behind and creates meaningful opportunities for all residents, regardless of their abilities.
