Young people across South Africa continue to face serious challenges when trying to find stable employment opportunities. For many unemployed youth and community members, the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) remains one of the most important ways to gain temporary work, practical experience, and exposure to municipal service delivery.
Nongoma Local Municipality has officially opened applications for EPWP opportunities for the 2026/2027 programme cycle. The municipality is recruiting unemployed residents for several temporary positions, including General Workers, Temporary Traffic Wardens, Technical Services workers, and opportunities reserved for people living with disabilities.
For applicants who are physically fit, motivated to work, and ready to contribute to local community projects, these opportunities could provide valuable workplace experience and short-term income support.
Overview of the EPWP Opportunities
Nongoma Local Municipality is offering a total of 105 temporary EPWP positions for qualifying applicants.
Programme Details
- Organisation: Nongoma Local Municipality
- Programme: Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)
- Location: Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal
- Programme Duration: 12 Months
- Programme Period: 01 July 2026 – 30 June 2027
- Closing Date: 10 June 2026 before 12h00
- Stipend: R1400.00 for 10 days worked
- Application Method: Hand delivery or postal submission
- Eligibility: Nongoma residents only
Available EPWP Positions
The municipality is recruiting for the following opportunities:
General Workers x75
These positions involve general labour and support duties within the municipality.
Successful applicants may assist with:
- Waste collection and management
- Cleaning public areas
- General maintenance work
- Community service support activities
- Keeping work areas safe and clean
- Handling municipal operational support tasks
This opportunity may suit applicants who are physically fit and willing to perform manual labour activities.
Temporary Traffic Wardens x08
The municipality is also recruiting Temporary Traffic Wardens to assist with traffic management and road safety operations.
This opportunity could benefit young people interested in:
- Community safety
- Traffic services
- Public law enforcement support
- Road safety awareness
Candidates may gain valuable exposure to municipal traffic operations and community service work.
Technical Services (Drainage Maintenance) x10
These positions focus on municipal drainage maintenance and infrastructure support.
Successful candidates may assist with:
- Drainage cleaning
- Stormwater maintenance
- Infrastructure upkeep
- Technical support labour
- Public area maintenance
The work may involve outdoor physical labour and maintenance-related duties.
Disability Opportunities x10
Nongoma Municipality has also reserved positions specifically for people living with disabilities.
This forms part of the municipality’s commitment to inclusive employment practices and equal opportunity participation.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the municipality’s minimum requirements before submitting an application.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
- Be residents of Nongoma Municipality
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Have good communication skills
- Be physically fit and healthy
- Demonstrate discipline and willingness to work
Because several of the positions involve physical labour, applicants should be prepared for outdoor and manual work environments.
Selection Targets
The municipality has indicated that preference will be given according to EPWP participation targets.
These include:
- 60% youth participation
- 55% women participation
- 2% participation for people living with disabilities
- Preference for previously disadvantaged applicants
These targets support government transformation and employment equity objectives.
Programme Duration and Stipend
The EPWP programme will run from:
01 July 2026 to 30 June 2027
Successful participants will receive a stipend during the programme period.
Stipend Information
- R1400.00 for 10 days worked
Although EPWP opportunities are temporary and not permanent employment, they still provide valuable workplace exposure, practical experience, and financial support for unemployed community members.
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare all required documents before submitting their applications.
Required Documents
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Proof of residence from Ward Councillor
- Updated CV (if available)
- Certified copies of qualifications (if applicable)
Applicants should ensure that all documents are:
- Clear and readable
- Properly certified
- Up to date
- Correctly attached
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Why EPWP Opportunities Matter
Many unemployed youth struggle to gain workplace experience because employers often prefer candidates who already understand work environments and responsibilities.
EPWP programmes help bridge this gap by allowing participants to:
- Gain work experience
- Build confidence
- Learn workplace discipline
- Improve communication skills
- Develop teamwork abilities
- Strengthen future job applications
For some participants, EPWP becomes the first step toward future employment opportunities.
Itumeleng’s Insider Tip
Before submitting your application, make sure your contact details are correct and active. Many applicants miss opportunities because recruiters cannot reach them after shortlisting. If possible, include a simple and professional CV even for general worker opportunities. A clean CV shows seriousness and organisation.
How to Apply
Applications together with certified copies must be addressed to:
The Municipal Manager
PO Box 84
Nongoma
3950
Applications may also be hand delivered to:
Municipal Registry Office
Lot 103, Main Street
Nongoma
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is:
10 June 2026 before 12h00
Late applications may not be considered.
Enquiries
Applicants who need more information can contact:
Human Services Section
Telephone: 035-831-7643
Important Notes From the Municipality
The municipality has provided several important conditions regarding the recruitment process.
Important Information
- The programme follows affirmative action principles
- The recruitment process is non-racial and non-sexist
- The municipality reserves the right not to make appointments
- Applicants who previously benefited from the programme will not be considered
- If applicants do not receive feedback within one week after the closing date, they should consider their application unsuccessful
Applicants should read all instructions carefully before submitting documents.
Common Mistakes Applicants Should Avoid
Many applicants lose opportunities because of avoidable mistakes.
Avoid These Common Errors
- Submitting uncertified documents
- Using incorrect contact numbers
- Leaving out proof of residence
- Applying after the closing date
- Submitting incomplete applications
- Forgetting to sign documents where required
- Using damaged or unreadable copies
Checking your application properly before submission can improve your chances.
Tips to Improve Your Application
Competition for EPWP opportunities is often very high, especially in areas with high unemployment.
Helpful Application Tips
- Submit your application early
- Keep documents neat and organised
- Use a simple and professional CV
- Ensure your phone number is active
- Dress respectfully if delivering documents by hand
- Double-check all required documents before submission
Even for temporary opportunities, professionalism still matters.
What Can Participants Gain From EPWP?
While EPWP jobs are temporary, they can still provide valuable long-term benefits.
Participants may gain:
- Workplace experience
- Better understanding of municipal operations
- Improved employability
- Professional references
- Time management skills
- Teamwork experience
- Exposure to public service environments
For unemployed youth, this kind of exposure can strengthen future job applications significantly.
Final Thoughts
The Nongoma Local Municipality EPWP Opportunities 2026 provide important temporary work opportunities for unemployed residents who want to gain practical experience and earn an income while contributing to community development.
With 105 positions available across General Worker, Traffic Warden, Technical Services, and Disability opportunities, the programme offers valuable exposure to municipal service environments.
Applicants should prepare their documents carefully, submit before the closing date, and ensure that all information provided is accurate and complete.
