Thembalethu Development, in partnership with the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional
Affairs (COGTA), has been implementing the Community Work Programme (CWP), one of the largest poverty
alleviation initiatives in South Africa. The primary aim of this programme is to provide an employment
safety net and create access to regular and predictable work opportunities for those in high-unemployment
areas, where sustainable alternatives are limited. In the first quarter of the year, Thembalethu Development
continued to manage the CWP in the Northern Cape and Western Cape, resulting in the creation of 42,549 work
opportunities across both provinces.
Participants recruited and employed in the CWP are required to engage in various useful and meaningful work
activities that positively impact their communities. These activities span a wide range of sectors, such as
agriculture, community services, construction, education, health, and social services. By addressing these
diverse sectors, the programme not only provides employment but also contributes to the holistic development
of the communities involved.
Participants in the SEF program were engaged in diverse community-focused activities for the collective
benefit. Each month, they dedicated eight days or 64 hours to initiatives spanning various themes, including
Education Support, Food Security and Nutrition, Greening and Environment, Waste Management, Community
Health, and Care Support. These activities not only addressed critical community needs but also provided
participants with valuable skills and experiences.
The structure of the programme allows participants to work for two days a week or eight days (64 hours) a
month. This arrangement provides them with the flexibility to use the remaining days for personal
development and other activities. The CWP is designed to strike a balance between providing immediate
employment and allowing participants the time to pursue other avenues for personal and professional growth.
Participants are paid a monthly stipend based on the number of days they work, ensuring they have a reliable
source of income. This stipend is crucial for the financial stability of participants, many of whom come
from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. By offering regular income, the CWP helps alleviate immediate
financial pressures while participants engage in work that benefits their communities.
Through their involvement in the CWP, participants contribute to the improvement and outlook of their
communities, making a lasting impact while gaining valuable work experience and skills. The programme
promotes self-reliance among participants and supports a developmental agenda within their communities. By
fostering a sense of purpose and community involvement, the CWP helps build stronger, more resilient
communities and empowers individuals to take charge of their future.
