MEDIA RELEASE
SANRAL launches national Contractor Development Programme to support black contractors and
further transform construction industry
Ms Lehlohonolo Memeza, SANRAL’s Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, introducing the Contractor Development
Programme aimed at supporting black contractors become main contractors.
Durban, 21 October 2024 – The South African National Road Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has launched a countrywide Contractor Development Programme to support and help black (African, Coloured and Indian) contractors to ultimately become main contractors on the roads agency’s construction and maintenance projects.
SANRAL’s Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Lehlohonolo Memeza, introduced the Contractor Development Programme (CDP) to industry players in Durban and Richard’s Bay today (Monday). The CDP is a new initiative by SANRAL which aims to increase the capacity, equity ownership and
sustainability of emerging contractors in Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) grades 5CE and higher.
Addressing the Contractor Development Programme event in Durban, Ms Memeza said that by investing in the development of contractors, SANRAL is aiming to empower black businesses, and especially those from underrepresented groups such as women, youth, persons with disabilities and military veterans.
“Through our Contractor Development Programme, SANRAL aims to create an inclusive environment where emerging contractors can thrive. This initiative is a vital step toward levelling the playing field, ensuring that opportunities for growth and development are accessible to all,” said Ms Memeza. “By prioritising these targeted groups, SANRAL is contributing to the transformation of the construction industry and creating opportunities for meaningful economic participation.”
Ms Memeza added: “The strength of our infrastructure lies in the capabilities of our contractors. SANRAL’s commitment to contractor development reflects our belief that by empowering black businesses, we are not only enhancing our projects but also contributing to economic stability and community upliftment.”
The Contractor Development Programme also aims to:
- Create a unique platform for CIDB grades 5 to 7 to maximize participation and skills development, addressing the challenge of ‘the missing middle’ CIDB grades.
- Include potentially emerging (PE) status in SANRAL’s tender documents.
- Develop a platform for recently upgraded CIDB grades 8 and 9 to participate on SANRAL projects, gaining necessary experience and support.
- Provide training, mentoring, financial and other forms of support to contractors participating in the programme.
“At SANRAL, we understand that successful projects begin with skilled hands and educated minds. Our Contractor Development Programme is designed to equip emerging contractors with the tools, knowledge and support they need to excel in a competitive industry, fostering a culture of excellence in construction,” said Ms Memeza.
Mr Wonder Jaca from the Black Business Federation expressed his appreciation for the commitment that SANRAL is showing towards broadening the entry of small black-owned enterprises into the sector and that the CDP is a good “opportunity for small players who are grade 5 to 7 to maximise their participation on SANRAL projects. Let us use those networks to empower those grades”.
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