Functional effectiveness of the EPWP Automated System (Data quality metrics, biometric verification uptake, and platform readiness)

The Portfolio Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure met to review the effectiveness of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and the quality of its data on beneficiaries. Officials from the EPWP detailed advances in its reporting system, including validating participant IDs against the National Population Register and piloting a mobile biometric application to verify participation in EPWP programmes.  Members voiced concerns about the practical implementation of these systems, particularly the feasibility of an online application for beneficiaries in deep rural areas with limited network coverage. Members called for simpler, less technology-reliant solutions to address the digital divide and requested a practical demonstration in low-connectivity settings. A major focus was data integrity and "ghost beneficiaries." Members wanted clarity on how over 1 400 deceased individuals' IDs were captured, expressing alarm about potential fraud and financial losses. Concerns were raised that unreliable data undermined the EPWP's impact. The Committee expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Independent Development Trust (IDT) for the late arrival of its officials and perceived unpreparedness to account for challenges in payments to non-profit organisations (NPOs). Members criticised the termination of NPO contracts before investigations into wrongdoing had been completed. They questioned the IDT's mandate, suggesting that NPO involvement might be reducing funds reaching beneficiaries. The Committee demanded further reports, including a history of ghost beneficiaries, financial losses from fraud, and a provincial breakdown of funding. Members reiterated the need for improved monitoring, evaluation, and demographic profiles. They proposed a broader stakeholder engagement with entities involved in implementing EPWP projects.