Private Sector Must Partner With Govt In Construction Industry � Swartz
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Monday September 22, 2014 16:41
Speaking at the Builder’s Expo and PPC construction summit held on Friday at Airport Junction mall, Swartz said his ministry is committed to the betterment of the industry as evidenced by their rigorous action plan.
“Some of you are aware that we recently launched regulatory instruments and frameworks for self-regulation of the three key professions, the architects, engineers and quality surveyors. We still have challenges ahead of us and must stay focused. We are troubled by many impediments but largely excessive fragmentation which continues to impede our efficiency gains,” he said.
Swartz said the overall contribution of the construction industry to the country’s GDP has grown to the current 7.7% from 4.7% in 2000. He added that they have made remarkable progress with regard to infrastructure development in areas of transport, energy, water, telecommunications and buildings.
“We now have world class facilities such as shopping malls, factory shells, schools, office buildings, hospitals and state of the art hospitality facilities. I am pleased to learn that the financial sector has come onboard to fund the private sector which is what has mainly sustained the industry during the difficult recession phase,” he said.
Swartz said they have completed several projects and are currently working on Sir Seretse Khama International Airport and Francistown stadium, which are scheduled for completion early next year.
The minister however noted that they are faced with challenges regarding globalisation and the external pressures that come with it. He said they could no longer afford to remain in the comfort of their protected environment, in fear of international players.