13 Nov 2017

Projects that are completed after the scheduled time are a concern as they end up being costly to government.

Assistant Minister for Presidential Affairs, Governance and Public Administration, Mr Thato Kwerepe reiterated the concern when touring projects funded through the Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP) in Maun on Saturday.

He said it was disheartening that some projects in Maun were still behind schedule despite government having allocated funds for them.

In an interview after the tour, Mr Kwerepe said although some construction companies undertaking ESP projects had promised to adhere to the completion date of January 2018, it was not convincing since they decried challenges of building materials and shortage of workers.

He noted that the projects were supposed to help address shortage of accommodation for health officers and teachers, but that it was clear that the delay would negatively affect government.

Mr Kwerepe noted that ESP projects were meant to support citizen owned companies who would in turn create employment by engaging locals.

He, however, said he was concerned that many contractors complained about workers who absconded from work, adding that it raised doubts whether the construction companies paid their employees accordingly.

Mr Kwerepe noted that in some instances the construction companies abandoned projects, citing the Etsha Primary School ESP projects.

He said the negative developments regarding the projects called on government to assess the authenticity of construction companies in future projects.

Mr Kwerepe added that service delivery as espoused by President Lt Gen. Dr Seretse Khama Ian Khama did not only apply to the public service.

He advised owners of construction companies to ensure the supervision of their projects in order to meet time the schedule.

Mr Kwerepe also noted that the quality of some projects raised concern, citing some of the buildings under renovation at the old General Maun Hospital.

Although many  of the projects toured were behind schedule, Mr Nchidzi Mojiwa of Denkent Construction said their projects, which started in August 2017 under ESP phase II, were two weeks ahead of schedule.

Mr Mojiwa said their company tackled challenges of shortage of materials by acquiring building materials well on time.

He also said the company maintained good relationships with their workers, adding that he was confident that they would complete the staff houses prior to the set date.

Mr Kwerepe commended the Denkent Company for being ahead of schedule. BOPA