SDM set to uplift emerging contractors
Groblersdal
The Executive Mayor of Sekhukhune District Municipality (SDM), Cllr Minah Bahula, has assured local emerging contractors that the municipality will strive to support and equip them with necessary assistance they require.
Bahula said when spearheading a crucial meeting and discussions at the SDM headquarters Council Chamber in Groblersdal on Friday 9 February.
The gathering brought together emerging contractors and those already active in the field, marking a significant step forward in the ongoing collaborative efforts between the municipality and the National Department of Public Works.
The two parties, SDM and Public Works Department, entered into the agreement with the full knowledge that, it will lay the basis for skills development which is fundamental in the country and the district.
The agreement also states that the National Department of Public Works allocate funding for EPWP programme, and for the sole purpose of training learner contractors who are employed in the EPWP through labour intensive infrastructure projects with the district municipality allocating onsite projects.
Therefore, the primary objective of the meeting initiated by the executive mayor, was to address the challenges faced by contractors and provide tangible solutions to enhance their capabilities.
“I called you all in here to understand what could be the challenges hindering some contractors to complete their tasks. This programme is aimed to equip the people of Sekhukhune so that whatever opportunity that arises in the District of Sekhukhune, can benefit each one of you. However, what is expected from you guys is quality work. Our role as the district, is solely to manage and deliver on operation. We continue to thank the department for this monumental support,” she said.
During the engagement, contractors expressed their enthusiasm for contributing to community through rendering sanitation services while highlighting key obstacles such as grading, procurement and limited access.
Despite these hurdles, both the Executive Mayor Bahula and SDM Municipal Manager, Meshack Kgwale, reiterated their commitment to overcoming barriers and delivering effective solutions.
They underscored the importance of collaborative support from municipal authorities to address systemic issues and foster sustainable development in the water and infrastructure sanitation sector.
The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment from all parties involved to work together towards a more prosperous and inclusive future for SDM.
The meeting was also attended by SDM Council Speaker, Cllr Kwediyebotse Chego, Members of Mayoral Committee (MMCs) in the Infrastructure Water Services and leader of Executive Business in SDM Cllr Kuki Sefala.