Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA)
By Thabo Mosia
The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) has announced the termination of contracts for Community Work Programme (CWP) participants aged 55 and above, citing budget constraints and a strategic shift towards youth employment.
Background on the Community Work Programme
The CWP, established in 2010, serves as a safety net for unemployed individuals, providing part-time work opportunities to enhance skills and contribute to community development. The programme has been instrumental in alleviating poverty and fostering economic empowerment across South Africa. 
Details of the Termination
CoGTA’s decision specifically targets participants over the age of 60 who are concurrently receiving old age grants from the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). The department aims to prevent “double dipping” into government funds and redirect resources to individuals solely dependent on the CWP for their livelihood. 
The exit process was initiated after a thorough verification exercise conducted in collaboration with SASSA. Affected participants were formally notified, with their last working days occurring in mid-August 2024. The final stipends were disbursed on 25 September 2024. 
Rationale Behind the Decision
CoGTA has emphasized that this measure is part of a broader strategy to enhance the programme’s effectiveness and sustainability. By reallocating resources, the department plans to enroll more women, young people, and persons with disabilities, thereby addressing unemployment and skills shortages among these groups. 
Additionally, the department intends to focus on imparting technology-based and artisanal skills to unemployed women and youth, facilitating their transition into sustainable livelihoods. 
Stakeholder Reactions
The decision has elicited mixed reactions. Some stakeholders express concern over the potential impact on older participants who may struggle to find alternative sources of income. Conversely, others acknowledge the necessity of optimizing resource allocation to support vulnerable groups, particularly the youth, in a challenging economic climate.
Future Directions for the CWP
This development aligns with CoGTA’s ongoing efforts to restructure the CWP for greater impact. In June 2023, Minister Thembi Nkadimeng outlined a framework aimed at enhancing the programme’s sustainability and effectiveness. The reimagined CWP seeks to support municipal service delivery, promote economically viable enterprises, and provide quality training to facilitate participants’ transition into sustainable livelihoods. 
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