Macpherson vows to crack down on construction mafias

He said it would be done through collaboration with law enforcement.

Macpherson delivered the department's budget vote in Parliament on Tuesday.

He told MPs that his main priority is to implement measures to increase the country's GDP through infrastructure development.

"We intend to add urgency to the pace of infrastructure delivery by innovating and inviting new ideas to achieve what needs to be done.

The success of our country lies in us working together, using our collective strength to build a country that we are all shareholders of. 

We are embarking on a new path to build partnerships with stakeholders and businesses that will invest in our bankable infrastructure projects," said Macpherson.

He warned it would only be possible if challenges with implementation were resolved.

This includes disruption and hijacking of construction sites, projects not being completed on time and within budget, corruption and poor project management.

The construction mafias have been targeting infrastructure development, business entities and construction sides by extorting money from contractors.

"Through infrastructure networks, we can improve productivity, attract investment, and enhance the overall well-being of every South African,” the minister said.

“Transformation and jobs can only come from economic growth. We must, therefore, support every entity that can help us achieve this target.

“In this regard, Infrastructure South Africa is expected to lead in creating a conducive environment for increased private sector investments.

“ISA will receive extra special attention as our special purpose vehicle that will focus on ensuring that we have well-packaged projects that are financially viable, catalytic in nature and are delivered on time with all stakeholders meeting their commitments,” said Macpherson.

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