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OPINION: Built Environment Professionals' participation in upcoming national elections is vital

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Mlondi Cele, a Built Environment Professional, emphasizes the significance of the upcoming national elections for the construction and built sectors. He encourages stakeholders to actively participate and articulate their expectations to influence economic policies and attract investments. Cele believes that the involvement of industry professionals and stakeholders in the elections can positively impact the industry's future and create favorable outcomes for all. The South African elections are of paramount importance to the construction and built sectors, as they have the potential to significantly influence their future trajectories. Economic, policy, and regulatory changes stemming from the elections can either catalyze growth or present novel challenges. Consequently, it is a pivotal juncture for stakeholders in these industries to actively participate in the electoral process and advocate for their interests. The construction and built environment industry plays a central rol
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OPINION:The Construction Mafia requires effective law enforcement from the start for proper management.

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Jennifer Smit believes the construction mafia, is influenced by social issues. Initially, legitimate demands for local procurement and transformation .However, over time, the mafia has resorted to violent behaviors such as carrying guns, implementing lockouts, and obstructing roads. This shift in behavior has become a defining characteristic of the construction mafia.


The expansion of the construction mafia syndicates across South Africa is causing concern. Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has called for increased police protection of construction sites. Earlier, developers withdrew from the Cape's largest housing project due to extortion threats.
 
Jennifer Smit, Director and Head of Construction & Engineering at Werksmans Attorneys, says it appears the extortion is not being strategically addressed through legislation or targeted policing. Companies being extorted usually take the legal route as a last resort. Police in remote areas may fail to act due to fear of intimidation by the extortionists. Smit suggests that contractors strategize to take into account the community near the project site, including labor deployment and community engagement.

The full article on Jennifer Smit hardhatOPINION was published by EWN

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