The roadshow, led by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure in partnership with the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), aims to address barriers that have prevented many small contractors from moving up CIDB grades and accessing larger projects. The initiative is also intended to narrow the gap between infrastructure funding and delivery capacity, particularly by supporting contractors rooted in local communities.
Speaking to Channel Africa, Zikalala said the focus is on improving compliance and professionalism through technical and administrative support, structured training, and better linkages to project opportunities. Zikalala said the programme also relies on preferential procurement mechanisms, encouraging larger firms to work with smaller contractors in localities as part of supplier development. Zikalala referenced social facilitation processes and the Build Programme implemented through the CIDB as vehicles for mentoring, skills transfer and access to work.
Zikalala said East London forms part of a broader national rollout rather than a once-off intervention. The roadshow has already visited the Northern Cape, with further stops planned across the country before year-end.
A key objective, Zikalala said, is to improve quality and safety standards in the sector while building sustainable contractor pipelines. Zikalala noted recent incidents involving building collapses and said capacity-building must be matched with strict adherence to construction standards.
Zikalala also raised concern about the stop-start nature of work for many small contractors, where limited project flow undermines sustainability. The roadshow is designed to expand access to regular work, including through partnerships with the private sector.
Zikalala said contractor development efforts prioritise women, youth, persons with disabilities and military veterans, with progress already visible in contractors moving into higher CIDB grades.
Following the KuGompo City engagement, Zikalala said ongoing communication channels will be established to share opportunities, provide support and respond quickly to operational challenges, with a view to building a sustained development platform rather than a single event.
–ChannelAfrica–
