CONTRIBUTOR
We need to be aware that municipal budgets set for infrastructure may be diverted . And we should stand ready to assist in infrastructure that might be prioritised , such as hospitals and clinics .” He called on industry to contribute where they can , to go beyond the call of duty , and work together with the state to address issues around resources and governance . Pillay presented various opportunities which could be leveraged in 2021 to strengthen the industry and economy :
• Greater community involvement in the development of infrastructure , both new and maintained , for the benefit of end-users as well as the creation of jobs .
• A decentralised approach to spatial planning and development , spurred by the decreased emphasis on metros due to remote work and teleconferencing .
• Increased attention to agriculture and surrounding services , as the agriculture sector is performing well , and surrounding areas are prime for development .
• Greater focus on maintenance , which is vital due to the poor performance of our infrastructure , as highlighted in the recent SAICE Infrastructure Report Card .
“ For rebuilding to happen effectively , we need collaboration between all spheres of government . We need coordination between all role players , and we need to partner to build state capacity and ensure the necessary skills development takes place .” He highlighted the recent emphasis on professionalisation of the public service and said that CESA stands ready to support this initiative .
PURPOSE
“ In our efforts to rebuild , let us maintain our focus and purpose on doing so with quality and integrity . If we are to truly save lives and livelihoods , we must operate with an unwavering focus on value , reliability , and sustainability .” CESA ’ s emphasis on quality has been further highlighted by the new mandated management systems for CESA members based on international standards for quality , integrity , and sustainability . This demonstrates CESA ’ s commitment to accountability , which Pillay says he hopes to see reflected in public sector spheres .
Pillay also mentioned the Draft Public Procurement Bill which has seen industry lobby for a more transparent procurement process with decentralised authority structures to ensure the necessary checks and balances are in place . “ CESA calls on policymakers to listen to the voices of industry and ensure the bill promotes integrity , localisation , transparency , and accountability ,” he said .
Finally , Pillay suggested an “ immune booster ” in South Africa ’ s recovery plan : “ The identified SIPS will play a decisive role in economic recovery if they can break ground . Getting a few selected projects off the ground early will be valuable in giving impetus to the programme , providing reassurance to the public , and encouraging investment confidence in South Africa .”
Looking forward to industry developments , Pillay mentioned the upcoming CESA Annual Infrastructure Indaba , the FIDIC Africa Infrastructure Conference , as well as the newly formed Construction Alliance South Africa ( CASA ) as key in creating constructive engagements and industry coordination .
RECOVERY
In conclusion , Pillay said that CESA is committed to contributing to effective and sustainable solutions and will continue to guide its members and the industry at large towards more transparent and prosperous infrastructure delivery processes . “ Every person in South Africa stands to benefit from this goal which would see improved use of taxpayers ’ money , an appropriately capacitated state , and the delivery of safe and reliable national infrastructure offering a strong foundation for further economic growth . However , as Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure , Patricia de Lille said at our Infrastructure Indaba last year : ‘ We need to start implementing , the patience of our people is running out !’ The preservation and deepening of our precious democracy will depend entirely on the success of our recovery .”
“ Our task is not easy , as the nuances at play make for a bumpy road to recovery . Regardless , CESA will continue to actively engage through the relevant platforms and to remain your ‘ Partner in enabling Consulting Engineering Excellence ’,” concluded Pillay .
6 MARCH - APRIL 2021 SAAffordHousing saaffordablehousingmag SA Affordable Housing www . saaffordablehousing . co . za