VANDERBIJLPARK – The South African government has reinforced its commitment to growing the country’s construction sector after the successful Gauteng Contractor Development Roadshow, hosted by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) in partnership with the Construction Industry Development Board (cidb) at the Emerald Hotel in Vanderbijlpark on Friday.
The high-level engagement brought together contractors, government departments, infrastructure agencies, development finance institutions and public sector stakeholders to equip both emerging and established contractors with the knowledge, resources and opportunities needed to participate more effectively in South Africa’s expanding infrastructure programme.
The roadshow focused on strengthening collaboration between government and industry while providing practical guidance on procurement opportunities, funding mechanisms, compliance requirements and contractor development initiatives.
Infrastructure Growth Depends on Strong Contractors
Addressing delegates, Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Sihle Zikalala said the country’s ambitious infrastructure programme can only succeed if contractors are empowered to deliver quality projects while creating employment and stimulating local economies.
“Every infrastructure project is an opportunity to create jobs, grow local businesses, transfer skills and strengthen communities. A capable contractor base is not separate from infrastructure delivery; it is the foundation on which successful infrastructure delivery depends,” Zikalala said.
The event was also addressed by Gauteng MEC for Infrastructure Development and Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Jacob Mamabolo, who reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to supporting contractors through improved payment systems and stronger partnerships.
R300 Million Construction Fund to Unlock Opportunities
One of the biggest highlights of the roadshow was the promotion of the newly launched R300 million Construction Fund, established in May 2026 through a partnership between the cidb and the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA).
The fund aims to assist emerging contractors by providing access to affordable financing, enabling them to expand their businesses, improve capacity and successfully compete for public infrastructure projects.
According to industry data shared during the event:
- 24% of contractors identify access to finance as one of their biggest barriers to growth.
- 53% experienced difficulties securing loans or financial guarantees during the past year.
Government believes the Construction Fund will play a significant role in addressing these challenges while accelerating transformation within the construction industry.
Faster Payments Critical for Contractor Survival
Cash flow continues to be one of the biggest challenges facing construction businesses, particularly small and emerging contractors.
MEC Mamabolo reaffirmed the Gauteng Provincial Government’s commitment to paying legitimate contractor invoices within 30 days, saying prompt payments are essential to keeping businesses operational and protecting jobs.
He also urged contractors to strengthen their own businesses by maintaining ethical business practices, improving financial management and embracing digital systems that enhance efficiency and compliance.
Skills Development Takes Centre Stage
The cidb also announced that its new Certificate in Construction Management will officially launch in July 2026 under the cidb B.U.I.L.D Programme.
The qualification is being delivered in partnership with:
- Durban University of Technology
- Walter Sisulu University
- University of the Free State
The programme is expected to improve technical skills while helping contractors progress through the cidb grading system and qualify for larger infrastructure projects.
Cidb Chief Executive Officer Bongani Dladla said contractor development should be measured by long-term growth rather than simply increasing industry participation.
“Success cannot be measured only by how many contractors enter the industry, but by how many can grow, progress to higher cidb grades and compete successfully in larger and more complex projects. A stronger contractor base strengthens the entire construction ecosystem; it creates jobs, supports transformation and improves delivery capability,” Dladla said.
Government Agencies Engage Contractors
The roadshow also provided contractors with direct access to key public sector institutions responsible for delivering infrastructure projects and administering procurement processes.
Participating organisations included:
- South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL)
- Independent Development Trust (IDT)
- Department of Water and Sanitation
- Rand Water
- Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA)
- Gauteng Office of the Premier
- Sedibeng District Municipality
- Emfuleni Local Municipality
- South African Revenue Service (SARS)
Representatives shared information on upcoming infrastructure projects, procurement procedures, compliance obligations and available contractor support programmes.
Building a More Inclusive Construction Industry
The Gauteng Contractor Development Roadshow forms part of government’s broader national programme aimed at strengthening contractor capacity, improving access to finance and creating a more competitive and inclusive construction industry.
As South Africa continues investing in infrastructure-led economic growth, initiatives such as these are expected to help emerging contractors secure greater participation in public projects, create employment opportunities and contribute meaningfully to the country’s long-term development.
