The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) has opened applications for several key permanent positions, as part of a move by Minister Dean Macpherson to stabilise the administration and governance of the department.

Over the weekend, key vacancies were advertised, including the head of infrastructure, supply management executive for the Property Management Trading Entity, human resource management chief director and facilities management deputy director.

The department is also seeking a permanent deputy director-general (DG) for the Expanded Public Works Programme, a deputy DG for policy research and regulation and a chief director for accounting and reporting.

In a statement on Monday Macpherson emphasised the importance of filling these positions with skilled professionals, encouraging qualified South Africans to apply before the October 18 deadline.

"The filling of these key positions with permanent appointments is part of the actions we have been taking to bring stability and good governance to the department since my appointment more than two months ago. These positions play a critical role in the department's functioning."

"With the advertising of these positions, we are laying the foundation of a professional public service within the DPWI which has a diversity of skills and expertise to move us forward," Macpherson added.

The recruitment drive comes at a critical time for South Africa, where infrastructure development is seen as a key lever to address the country's economic challenges. Strengthening the DPWI's capacity is expected to enable the department to oversee large-scale public works projects, which are essential for creating jobs, spurring economic growth and improving public services.

President Cyril Ramaphosa underscored the importance of infrastructure investment in South Africa's economic recovery during his July address at the opening of Parliament. He vowed that the Government of National Unity would transform the country into "a construction site".

Macpherson has echoed this vision, committing to ramping up construction projects nationwide and partnering with the private sector to boost infrastructure investment.

"The advertising of these positions forms part of the greater work we are doing to build a strong DPWI to deliver our vision of turning South Africa into a construction site. By working together we can ignite economic growth, create jobs and build a more prosperous South Africa," he asserted.