to speedy service delivery
17 April 2007
The MEC for the Department of Local Government and Housing, Candith
Mashego-Dlamini, has met all contractors in the province. MEC Mashego-Dlamini
reaffirmed the department's commitment in assisting emerging contractors to be
fully established, as well as addressing the problems that slow down housing
delivery in the province.
During the meeting contractors raised challenges facing the industry and
suggested better ways of addressing housing delivery. Issues of clarity on the
appointment, monitoring of housing projects, training of contractors, surging
building material costs, meeting deadlines and shortage of inspectors
dominated, were some of the issues raised by the contractors. In responding,
MEC Mashego-Dlamini highlighted that the appointment of constructors is guided
by proper procurement processes. She added that it was imperative that when
constructors are appointed the relevant municipalities where they must work are
informed so that they can work with the Ward Councillor, Ward Committee and
Community Development Workers, payment system to be jagged up and communication
with municipalities will be intensified. The MEC also urged constructors to
improve their work rate and quality. She further warned constructors that the
department will deal harshly with those who defraud the department.
Augmenting the MEC's response, Head of Department, Ms Gladys Sibeko assured
the contractors that the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC)
would appoint inspectors to assist constructors registered with them. She also
appealed with contractors to buy material in bulk to yield better profits. The
meeting was the second and last department's drive as part of this year's
Imbizo Focus Week. The department met with consultants earlier last week.
Enquiries:
Simphiwe Kunene
Cell: 082 413 3931
Issued by: Department of Local Government and Housing, Mpumalanga Provincial
Government
17 April 2007
