As the minister of public works & infrastructure, I was delighted that President Cyril Ramaphosa supported my call to turn South Africa into a bustling construction site during his opening of parliament address. I want a wave of infrastructure investment across the country to grow the economy and create sustainable jobs. This should be seen as a beacon of hope to improve the living conditions of all our citizens.
The need for infrastructure development and investment has never been more urgent. Not only do our transport networks, energy generation and public facilities require significant upgrades and expansion, but infrastructure investment is widely viewed as a catalyst for economic growth. Aside from the immediate jobs it provides, it lays the foundation for long-term sustainable economic development. The building of new roads, railways, sustainable electricity supply, hospitals and schools helps to improve the overall functioning and efficiency of our economy.
My vision for the department aligns perfectly with this economic imperative. If my department focuses on infrastructure development, we can help to stimulate economic activity, attract additional private sector investment and foster a more inclusive economy. This is why I outlined in my inaugural budget speech that we are committed to simplifying regulations around public-private partnerships as this will open the door for increased private sector participation, crucial for the sustainability and scalability of these projects. My aim is to work with the private sector to help renovate the thousands of properties in the department’s portfolio, and where possible work towards making these properties income-generating for the greater public good.
However, we are faced with a significant challenge with the rise of the so-called construction mafia, criminal groups that have been extorting money from construction companies and stalling progress on various projects. I have committed to working with the minister of police to restore the rule of law at construction sites. We cannot allow lawlessness to continue; we must ensure the safety and security of these projects as they are vital to attract and retain investment.
We are faced with a significant challenge with the rise of the construction mafia. I have committed to working with the minister of police to restore the rule of law at construction sites
The success of the government of national unity’s vision for large-scale infrastructure development hinges on collaboration with various stakeholders within the government and in the private sector. In the coming weeks, I will put together an advisory committee to allow us to bring together the very best minds in infrastructure development. By improving stakeholder relationships at every level of governance, we will be able to build trust; it can lead to better oversight, quicker turnaround times and ultimately more infrastructure investment.
One way the department plans to achieve this collaboration is by expanding and capacitating Infrastructure South Africa (ISA). I am committed to ensuring this institution has the resources and expertise to plan, co-ordinate and execute projects effectively. Successful execution of infrastructure investment requires long-term planning and oversight, often running into several years. I therefore plan to work with the National Treasury to improve the financing and planning mechanisms of infrastructure development. Having met ISA officials a week ago, I have no doubt that this organisation will be able to play this important role.
The improved maintenance of public infrastructure, as mentioned by the president this week, will also play a critical role to achieve our vision. Unfortunately, South Africa has historically struggled to maintain its infrastructure, which has often led to the deterioration of public assets and contributed to increased costs in the long term. I will work with the department to establish systems and dedicated resources to improve the regular maintenance of public assets to ensure that they remain usable.
This culture of maintenance reflects our commitment to responsible governance. It demonstrates that we are not only focused on new development but also on preserving and enhancing existing infrastructure for future generations. This approach will reduce wasteful spending on infrastructure that falls into disrepair shortly after construction, and we hope it will increase confidence among citizens and investors alike that we are proud and take care of the assets we develop.
My plan to turn the country into a construction site has the potential to transform our economic landscape. I look forward to working with all stakeholders to develop this plan. In the months and years ahead, by transforming South Africa into a construction site we will have a testament of what can be achieved when we all work together. Let’s build South Africa.
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.