The success of the fynbos working for water project as a public works programme, benefitting the poor in the Western Cape province of South Africa.

Abstract

The Working for Water Programme launched by the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry in September 1995 consists of 38 projects in various provinces of South Africa, mainly in Western and Eastern Cape. Its principal objectives are:• to recover water presently being lost to invading alien plants and to prevent further losses; • to create jobs, empower individuals and build communities; • to conserve biological diversity, ecological integrity and catchment stability. The programme initiated and supported by Professor Kader Asmal, then Minister of Water Affairs and Forestry, is being regarded as one of the successful efforts to create gainful employment opportunities for the underprivileged of the society in the context of the South African Reconstruction and Development Programme(RDP). The Fynbos Working for Water Project (FWWP) is part of the Public Works Programme (PWP) to create employment opportunities and to alleviate poverty. PWP's provide temporary employment. Their overall objective is to provide all workers with the opportunity for functional learning and skills development, not only within the context of the Working for Water programme, but to improve their potential in seeking further employment outside of the programme. Particular emphasis is placed on the marketing of skills related to the conservation environment, and to skills required for the stimulation and development of secondary industries. The training programme also ensures that all workers are provided with general capacity building