City of Cape Town calls on unemployed residents to update their jobseeker info

The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) is a national government initiative implemented by the City of Cape Town to provide temporary work opportunities, reduce poverty, and offer meaningful workplace experience to residents. To be considered for EPWP opportunities, jobseekers must be registered and active on the City’s Jobseeker Database, which ensures a fair and transparent recruitment process.

To maintain fairness and efficiency in this process, the City is urging all jobseekers to update their details regularly to stay eligible for placement.

From 1 November 2025, jobseekers who have not updated their details within the past 12 months will be automatically deactivated. This means they will no longer be eligible for EPWP placements until their information is updated.

How to register and update your  details:

• Visit a subcouncil office or SmartCape Centre in a library. Open on weekdays from 08:00 until 15:30, except public holidays.
• Visit the EPWP Walk-In Centre at 50 Wale Street. Open weekdays from 08:00 until 15:30.
• For more information, contact the EPWP HelpDesk on 021 400 9406 or email epwp.help@capetown.gov.za

Registering on the Jobseekers Database, as well as receiving any related EPWP work opportunities from the City, is entirely free. No payment is required at any stage of the process.

Jobseekers must provide the following information to update their details:

• Personal identification - ID document
• Proof of address
• Contact information
• Skills and experience information - Curriculum Vitae 

"The City remains dedicated to creating pathways to employment and empowering our communities through inclusive, skills-based opportunities. The EPWP provides valuable on-the-job experience and an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to community development projects. By registering on the database, residents position themselves to be considered for available EPWP placements as they arise across various departments and initiatives."

- Grant Twigg, Mayoral Committee Member - Urban Waste Management