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On June 28th, Councillors were informed about a significant staff shortage hindering the full operation of refuse collection in Matjhabeng. To prevent a backlog, an average of 12 areas' refuse is collected daily. The shortage is mainly due to Matjhabeng's reliance on Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) workers without employing permanent staff in this department. The EPWP contracts ended last week, highlighting the significant deficiency in permanent staffing, planning, and management for this crucial function.

EPWP is a labour-intensive government initiative funded by public resources to provide public services. The programme plays a vital role in alleviating unemployment and poverty by offering temporary work across the country, however Matjhabeng's heavy reliance on EPWP workers for refuse removal causes delays when contracts end. The Municipality should utilise EPWP workers for tasks outlined in their contracts, such as general cleaning and minor maintenance within the community.

Although six refuse removal trucks were provided on July 1st, limited carrier staff resulted in only three areas being serviced. The carrier staff assist in the quick collection of refuse. The following days saw a similar pattern of staff constraints affecting refuse collection. On July 2nd, five refuse removal trucks were made available, but only ten carriers arrived to work, resulting in only six areas being serviced. On July 3rd, nine carriers arrived, allowing seven areas to be scheduled for service.

While discussions are ongoing about approving a new EPWP contract, there is no set timeline. The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Matjhabeng has reached out to the Municipal Manager seeking clarity on why the Municipality relies so heavily on EPWP workers and is not filling more permanent positions in this department. It is imperative that staffing issues be resolved to ensure efficient refuse removal.

Issued by Abby Schoeman - DA Councillor Matjhabeng Local Municipality