Deputy Speaker, a total of 25 138 work opportunities were created from April to September this year through the Expanded Public Works Programme in KwaZulu-Natal. The programme is supported by the KZN premier, Zweli Mkhize, the public works department, various provincial departments, Sukuma Sakhe, which is isiZulu for "Stand up and build", the Wildlands Trust and the private sector.
One of the initiatives that led to work opportunities is the KZN Integrated Greening Programme. This community-based initiative provides employment for 1 395 people who are tasked with planting 1 million trees, collecting and recycling 75 000 tons of waste, restoring 1 000 ha of forest and conserving 25 000 ha of communal land.
An amount of R1,9 million was spent on stipends between April and September this year. As a result the department has received an incentive grant of R659 400 for creating jobs in its five departmental projects. This grant was used for increasing input in a poverty alleviation programme called Izandla Ziyagezana and the erection of HIV and Aids awareness campaign signboards.
The ANC welcomes this initiative and believes it should be fast-tracked to other areas. [Time expired.] [Applause.]