The eThekwini Municipality's Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) has faced budget shortfalls over a six-year period. The national government contributed R257.8 million, while the ratepayers of eThekwini contributed R724.1 million.
The eThekwini Municipality stated that the controversy over financial losses around the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) was historical and that corrective measures have been put in place.
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson stated in April 2026 that he would stop EPWP grant payments to the municipality until he received feedback on the programme.
Macpherson’s report highlighted irregularities, including payments for services not rendered, payments to deceased or ineligible beneficiaries, and instances where individuals allegedly received EPWP payments while employed by other government institutions.
A report submitted by the municipality identified R6.8 million in losses linked to irregularities.
