The Independent Development Trust (IDT) confirms that the Collen Mashawana Foundation (CMF) has formally withdrawn from its participation in the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) Non-State Sector (NSS).
The withdrawal comes after the IDT issued a formal Notice of Clarification on 10 November 2025, requiring CMF to provide a detailed written response on:

• Allegations of forged signatures on attendance registers, payment sheets and specimen documents;
• Compliance with contractual obligations for stipend disbursement;
• Submission of all supporting documentation for verification; and
• Any internal controls CMF relied on to validate the authenticity of signatures submitted to the IDT.

The notice gave CMF a deadline to submit documentary proof and advised that failure to respond could result in remedial action under the Service Level Agreement, including contract termination and escalation to the relevant authorities.

The notice was issued as part of the IDT’s statutory responsibility to safeguard public funds and ensure compliance with the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), the EPWP framework and internal governance policies. CMF subsequently requested an extension to compile their own documentation. However, CMF’s own correspondence indicates that all required documentation
by the IDT was already in their possession and accessible through the relevant regional offices, the IDT advised that an extension could be considered provided that CMF first furnished the supporting documents requested as part of the clarification process. Given the seriousness of the allegations and in line with PFMA requirements, the IDT proceeded with its clarification process
within the prescribed governance timelines.

CMF later notified the IDT of its decision to withdraw from the programme with effect from 1 December 2025 citing reputational considerations. The IDT has acknowledged the withdrawal and will ensure that the transition does not disrupt service delivery to EPWP participants.

Although CMF has opted to withdraw, this development does not halt or affect the IDT’s internal governance processes. The IDT will continue with the independent forensic review currently under way. This review seeks to verify the authenticity of documents submitted by CMF, assess compliance with contractual obligations and determine whether any irregularities occurred during
the implementation of the EPWP programme.

The IDT reiterates its commitment to accountability, transparency and the responsible management of public funds. The ongoing forensic investigation will proceed to its conclusion to ensure that any irregularities are fully identified and addressed. Should evidence of wrongdoing be confirmed, the organisation will act decisively in line with the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), Treasury Regulations and its Supply Chain Management Policy, including recovery of funds and referral of the matter to law-enforcement authorities.

The IDT continues to work closely with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) to strengthen oversight mechanisms within the EPWP NSS programme and safeguard public trust.

Issued by: Acting CEO
Sfiso Nsibande
The Independent Development Trust (IDT)

Enquiries:
Ms. Lerato Modisana – Senior Manager: Corporate Communications & Stakeholder
Management. 073 599 6633 or Lerato.Modisana@idt.org.za