OPINION: The Construction industry can drive South Africa's progress and prosperity

Immediate Past President of SAIBPP (South African Institute of Property Practitioners), Sylvester Martin, emphasizes the considerable onus the construction industry bears for its ongoing development and advancement, underscoring the industry's pivotal role in driving progress.

In his hardhatOPINION article Roelof van der Berg wrote, the continued success and development of South Africa's construction and infrastructure sectors, as well as the livelihoods of numerous families dependent on their success, are not solely the government's responsibility. He says industry leaders bear a significant responsibility to the sector, its workers, and the public they serve to drive development and enhance the quality of deliverables brought to the market.

This thought-provoking and forward-thinking article challenges the construction industry to play a meaningful role in its own development and advancement. As a collective, the construction and infrastructure sectors must actively engage as individuals, registered companies, and through their respective industry organizations to contribute to the industry's redevelopment.

Patrick Lencioni, an esteemed author of business management books, particularly concerning team management, emphasizes the profound impact of alignment within an organization. He posits that if all members of an organization could be aligned and working in unison, the organization could achieve remarkable success, regardless of industry, market, competition, or time.

Mother Teresa's profound words complement this notion, underscoring the potential for greatness when individuals collaborate and leverage their unique strengths.

The South African construction market, valued at $25.5 billion (480 billion Rands) in 2022, is projected to maintain a steady growth rate through 2027. This growth is primarily attributed to investments in transportation, energy, industrial, and housing projects.

Moreover, statistics from the South African government indicate that the construction sector is currently the fifth-largest employer in the country, providing employment to over 1.35 million individuals.

In light of the industry's significant impact on employment and the economy, leaders and influential figures within the industry are encouraged to actively contribute to its growth, shape its thinking, and ensure that the sector delivers on its role in the country's economic redevelopment.

Several key areas have been identified as critical for the industry's focus:

1. Integrity: Embracing the principle of doing the right thing, even when unobserved, and encouraging fellow professionals, executives, and leaders to do the same.

2. Relationships: Prioritizing people above all else, valuing every individual within the industry's vast workforce.

3. Commitment: Demonstrating unwavering commitment, recognizing that no obstacle is insurmountable, and mobilizing investment and development for the industry's advancement.

4. Networking: Recognizing the opportunities that arise through collaboration and creating robust networking platforms to facilitate industry growth.

5. Training: Continuously investing in training and enhancing technical skills to equip the workforce for excellence.

6. Transformation and Empowerment: Embracing transformation to ensure inclusiveness and sustainability, acknowledging the historical exclusion of the majority from participating in the mainstream economy.

Addressing issues of transformation, inclusivity, and empowerment is imperative. The industry must acknowledge its past and strive for more equitable representation, particularly in terms of black ownership and women's participation.

In conclusion, South Africa possesses immense potential and possibilities. As the nation strives for a better future, it is essential to remain optimistic and address negative thoughts, actions, and attitudes. The collective responsibility lies in creating jobs, fostering economic growth, and building a promising future for generations to come.

Embracing the spirit of opportunity and innovation, the construction and infrastructure sectors can overcome challenges and contribute significantly to South Africa's continued progress and prosperity.

Sylvester Martin is the group managing director of Inkanyeli Group, which includes subsidiaries in property and infrastructure development, construction, project management, and property investment.

He is the immediate Past President of SAIBPP - South African Institute of Property Practitioners and also a chairperson of several NGOs, including the Each One Teach One Foundation and the Inkanyeli-Inkululeko Foundation, which was created by Inkanyeli Group to give back to the community.

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