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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: Built Environment Professionals have a role to play in minimizing the activities of the 'construction mafia'

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 Even though Nancy Ronoh believes Government should shoulder most of the blame as far as the construction mafia is concerned she also says Construction/Built Environment Professionals can do their bit to minimize the activities of the mafia.

The 'construction mafia' and their activities seem to have gained traction if the headlines are anything to go by and I believe the reason behind this traction is that has been no government intervention. In most instances the police do nothing when contractors report construction mafia activity. Therefore the mafia have the power and confidence to continue. This has negatively impacted the Construction/Built Environment Industry. In an economy with high unemployment rates the industry needs projects to run successfully and companies to profit to ensure they can keep employing people. Every stoppage by the mafia is a loss for the whole industry.

As industry professionals we also  have a role to play to minimize the impact the mafia has on the industry. We should do our bit to ensure that the projects we are involved in adheres to labour laws and we should also promote skills development in the communities where the projects take place. To make this possible we also need government and law enforcement to play their role in protecting companies to ensure projects are completed without interruption.

ALSO READ: There is more to the 'construction mafia' than meets the eye

There are also suggestions that as a compromise the industry should absorb the “construction mafia” .I do not think this is feasible. In my experience these guys are not interested in construction as much as they are interested in profiting, therefore I do not believe this is a feasible way forward.

Nancy Ronoh is a Project Quantity Surveyor and an Entrepreneur

Do you have an opinion on this or other industry related issues? Send us your Hardhat Opinion here

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