KwaZulu-Natal Agriculture Opens EPWP Jobs for 2026 (X160 Posts)

Unemployed South Africans — especially young people looking for government work experience — now have a major opportunity to step into public service. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has officially opened applications for multiple Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) positions for 2026, offering paid short-term employment across several districts in the province.

This recruitment drive forms part of an important Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) campaign, aimed at strengthening animal health monitoring, vaccination tracking, and rural agricultural support systems. Beyond temporary employment, these roles provide valuable administrative, technical, and field experience that can open doors into agriculture, government administration, veterinary services, and data management careers.

Quick Overview

Organisation: KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Programme: Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)
Positions Available:

• EPWP Administration Clerks (22 posts)
• EPWP Animal Health Technicians (60 posts)
• EPWP Data Capturers(80 posts)

Location: Various districts across KwaZulu-Natal
Remuneration:

• Administration Clerk: R400 per day
• Data Capturer: R400 per day
• Animal Health Technician: R500 per day

Closing Date: 11 March 2026
Application Method: Z83 Form + CV via email or hand delivery

Available Positions

1. EPWP Administration Clerk (22 Positions)

Daily Rate: R400 per day

Districts Include:

• uMkhanyakude
• Zululand
• King Cetshwayo
• uMzinyathi
• Harry Gwala
• uMgungundlovu
• uThukela
• Amajuba
• iLembe
• uGu
• eThekwini

Minimum Requirements:

• Grade 12 (Matric)
• No experience required
• Computer literacy (MS Word, Excel, Access)
• Communication and organisational skills
• Teamwork and report writing ability

Key Duties:

• Capture livestock vaccination statistics
• Maintain administrative records
• File documentation and permits
• Assist logistics coordination
• Support community awareness campaigns

This role suits applicants interested in administration, office work, or government clerical careers.

2. EPWP Animal Health Technician (60 Positions)

Daily Rate: R500 per day

Requirements:

• National Diploma in Animal Health (NQF Level 6)
• Registration with South African Veterinary Council
• Valid driver’s licence
• 1–2 years relevant experience

Key Duties:

• Implement disease control measures
• Conduct animal health services
• Assist with quarantine services
• Collect samples and enforce compliance
• Provide farmer support and extension services

This role is ideal for qualified animal health graduates seeking field experience.

3. EPWP Data Capturer (80 Positions)

Daily Rate: R400 per day

Requirements:

• Matric certificate
• No experience required
• Computer skills essential
• Strong attention to detail

Core Responsibilities:

• Record animal identification numbers
• Capture vaccination information
• Maintain digital databases
• Upload real-time campaign data
• Generate daily and weekly reports

Participants will work with digital reporting tools and contribute to real-time monitoring systems.

Core Duties Across the Programme

Participants may assist with:

• Maintaining vaccination databases
• Linking animal records to farm owners
• Uploading geo-stamped activity data
• Monitoring vaccinated vs unvaccinated animals
• Cold-chain vaccine management support
• Producing tracking and early warning reports
• Filing administrative documentation
• Liaising with field officers and farmers

Competencies and Attributes Required

The department specifically highlights the following qualities:

• Ability to work under pressure
• Strong teamwork skills
• High data accuracy
• Willingness to work weekends or extended hours during campaigns
• Good communication abilities
• Organizational discipline

These competencies reflect real workplace expectations — meaning participants gain authentic professional exposure.

How to Apply

Applicants must follow official public service procedures.

Step 1: Complete the Z83 Form

Use the updated Z83 application form: Download Here

Step 2: Prepare Documents

Include:

• Completed Z83 form
• Comprehensive CV

Certified copies are only required if shortlisted.

Step 3: Submit Application

You may apply via:

Email:

• kznjobssouth@kzndard.gov.za
• kznjobsnorth@kzndard.gov.za

OR

Hand Delivery / Courier:

• South Service Centre – Hilton
• North Service Centre – Richards Bay
• Head Office – Cedara Road, Pietermaritzburg

Important Rules

• Submit ONE application per reference number.
• Late applications will not be accepted.