17 Apr 2023

Construction of Maitengwe Police Station, which commenced in October 2017, is expected to be completed next month.

Answering a parliamentary question recently, Minister of Transport and Public Works, Mr Eric Molale explained that the project was behind schedule because of a number of factors that affected progress including poor project management, which resulted in very critical cash flow challenges.

“These problems were compounded by inadequate project supervision which resulted in delays due to the requirement for the rectification of defective works and, the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr Molale said.

He said the project, which was awarded to Engicon at a contract sum of P 74 875 933.44, was currently at 95 per cent.

“In an effort to assist the contractor to complete the project, the ministry has been guaranteeing suppliers direct payment on delivery of materials required. Some of the pending works include re-doing some of roadways, construction of sewer ponds, and rectification of defective works or snags as well as testing and commissioning,” Mr Molale said.

He added that the contractor was issued with notice to correct due to his slow progress as well as notice of liquidated ascertained damages on July 14, 2021.

“The liquidated ascertained damages have been deferred to assist the contractor with cash flow and due to non-payment of prolongation fees, consultants have been unable to go to site. At site meeting on January 24 this year, the contractor committed to complete this project by end of March this year,” he said.

Nkange MP, Dr Never Tshabang, had asked the minister to update Parliament on the construction of Maitengwe Police Station, which he said had stalled for years.

He also wanted to know what had caused the delay and  the measures in place to ensure the completion of the project. ENDS