City of Cape Town introduces SMS Notifications for EPWP Work Opportunities
22 July 2025
The City of Cape Town has launched a new SMS notification system to inform jobseekers when they are selected for Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) work opportunities.
This pilot initiative, spearheaded by the City’s Urban Waste Management Directorate, is aimed at improving communication and accessibility for jobseekers registered on the City’s Jobseeker Database.
As of 16 July 2025, some jobseekers began receiving SMS messages to notify them of their selection. The SMS will include part of the applicant’s ID number as well as the project that they have been selected for.
To verify the validity of the SMS, you can contact the EPWP Helpdesk on 021 400 9406 or visit your nearest subcouncil office.
The City will cover the cost of SMS replies, ensuring that there is no charge to jobseekers responding to these opportunities.
‘This is part of our ongoing effort to make the recruitment process more transparent, responsive and inclusive. We want to ensure that those who are seeking work have the best chance of receiving and responding to opportunities timeously,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste Management, Alderman Grant Twigg.
Jobseekers are reminded to ensure their contact details on the Jobseeker Database are current and accurate. Those who receive these SMS notifications are encouraged to respond within 24 hours to confirm their interest.
Jobseekers can register or update their details every year to stay active on the Jobseeker Database and qualify for possible EPWP work opportunities via the following:
• Visit their nearest City of Cape Town Subcouncil office
• or SmartCape Centre in a library. Open on weekdays 08:00 until 15:30, except public holidays.
• Email: EPWP.Help@capetown.gov.za
For more information on the EPWP, visit: www.capetown.gov.za/EPWP
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.
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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
