‘Nasi Ispani Reloaded’ – Gauteng government invests R50 million in youth skills programme

Zuko Komisa

“Ispani Reloaded,” to tackle a R13 billion backlog in unfinished infrastructure projects.
The initiative aims to create in-house capacity for the state, reducing its reliance on costly and time-consuming tenders with private contractors for tasks like plumbing and bricklaying.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has dismissed opposition claims that the programme is a political ploy, insisting it is focused on addressing infrastructure challenges and empowering young people.

The Gauteng government has unveiled Nasi Ispani Reloaded, a new initiative that will invest R50 million to equip unemployed young people with the skills needed to complete unfinished state projects.

The programme was announced at a media briefing in Johannesburg this week.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said the initiative is a strategic move to address the province’s R13 billion backlog in critical infrastructure projects, including schools, clinics, and houses.

Lesufi noted that the government’s reliance on private contractors has been a major obstacle.

“If we need plumbing or bricklaying, we don’t have to go on a tender,” he said.

He emphasised that the programme is designed to build the state’s internal capacity, allowing it to address maintenance issues and complete projects without costly and time-consuming tender processes.

The Premier also dismissed claims from opposition parties that the programme is a political ploy ahead of the upcoming elections.

He insisted that Nasi Ispani Reloaded is solely focused on addressing the province’s infrastructure challenges and providing tangible skills to young people.