The Presidential Employment Programme (PEP) Annual Report 2023-2024 covers the third year of a three-year project aimed at improving socio-economic conditions in the Philippi Opportunity Area (POA). The program, run by the Philippi Economic Development Initiative (PEDI), exceeded its job creation targets over the three-year period and focused on various community improvement initiatives.
Background and Location
The PEP was designed to create employment opportunities for residents of five wards within the POA, involving 971 local participants in the third year. The project sought to build community resilience through employment and skill development, targeting a diverse group of residents, with a majority being women.
Key Work Streams
Participants were engaged in four primary work streams:
Safety – Focused on precinct and ward-based patrols, crime prevention, and escort services for City of Cape Town maintenance teams.
Cleaning – Included waste collection, illegal dumping reduction, and stormwater management.
Information – Teams handled data collection, service request tracking, and community engagement surveys.
Beautification and Placemaking – Involved art, public space transformation, and environmental initiatives.
Project Implementation
The year saw the smooth transition of operations between cohorts of workers, although protests by some exiting workers caused minor disruptions. Training programs, such as the Job Journey Course (focusing on self-development and job readiness) and SkillWise Online Computer Training, were introduced to equip participants with essential skills.
Operations and Outputs
Safety: The team provided patrols and escorted City staff, completing over 1,200 missions without any reported incidents of crime.
Cleaning: Both precinct and ward-based teams addressed littering, reduced illegal dumping, and supported recycling efforts.
Information: The team collected, processed, and reported data on safety, infrastructure, and community needs in Philippi, conducting surveys, submitting 1,943 service requests, and collaborating with NGOs to inform city projects and improve service delivery and urban planning.
Beautification: Art projects and public space enhancements, including murals and community gardens, fostered community engagement and environmental awareness.
Challenges
Key challenges included:
Stakeholder demands
Issues with the randomization process for participant selection
Ongoing threats of crime and community unrest
Despite these, the program fostered a culture of collaboration and transparency, transforming community engagement.
Impact and Lessons Learned
PEP significantly improved cleanliness, safety, and community cohesion in Philippi, creating 850 jobs and enhancing service delivery through its data collection and community engagement efforts. Notable achievements include:
Reduction in illegal dumping and increased recycling
Enhanced safety perception due to patrols
Improved public spaces through art and beautification projects
Conclusion
The PEP has been a catalyst for social and environmental transformation in Philippi. The program’s success in job creation, skill development, and community building sets a foundation for continued progress, with future efforts aimed at deepening partnerships and expanding training opportunities.
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