The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Construction Industry Development Board (cidb), will host the National Construction Summit on Crime-Free Construction Sites. This important event is scheduled for Tuesday, 19 November 2024, at the Durban International Convention Centre. The summit will tackle pressing concerns such as safety, the rise of the construction mafia, and criminal activities on construction sites, while promoting practical solutions to ensure secure working environments in the construction industry.

Bringing Together Key Stakeholders

The summit aims to unite key figures, including government officials, industry leaders, law enforcement agencies, and construction sector representatives, to engage in meaningful dialogue. By sharing best practices and strategies, the event seeks to establish safer construction sites nationwide.

Ministerial Commitment to Safety

The Minister of Public Works & Infrastructure, Honourable Dean Macpherson, reaffirmed his dedication to combating crime in the construction sector. "This summit is a fulfilment of a promise I made shortly after taking office to address construction site stoppages nationwide," he said. The Minister emphasised that construction sites should foster a sense of safety, respect, and trust. However, persistent crime undermines productivity, raises costs, and jeopardises workers' lives. He pledged to collaborate with industry stakeholders to create safer work environments and highlighted the government's commitment to ensuring the wellbeing of all construction workers.

SAPS and Law Enforcement Engagement

The South African Police Service (SAPS) will play a significant role in discussions, given their critical responsibility in maintaining site security. The Minister of Police, Honourable Senzo Mchunu, will speak at the summit to underscore SAPS's commitment to tackling crime in the sector.

Economic Impact and Key Speakers

Minister of Finance, Mr Enock Godongwana, will address the summit, reflecting on how crime in the construction sector affects investment and the broader economy. Additional speakers include the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal and the Mayor of eThekwini.

Collaboration with cidb

The Construction Industry Development Board (cidb) is committed to creating a professional and secure construction environment. Bongani Dladla, CEO of the cidb, highlighted the importance of collaboration: “The construction industry is crucial to our nation’s growth. Addressing crime is essential for protecting both assets and the lives of those who build our future. We are proud to support the National Construction Summit and work together with DPWI, law enforcement, and industry partners to establish higher safety standards.”

Expert-Led Discussions and Strategic Topics

The summit will feature a series of discussions led by experts, covering topics such as legislation and policy, security and law enforcement, community engagement, skills development, and empowerment. The goal is to equip stakeholders with the knowledge and tools necessary to combat crime effectively. The event will also facilitate networking and the formation of strategic partnerships to enhance site security and worker safety.

A Unified Vision for a Crime-Free Construction Industry

The DPWI, SAPS, and cidb are united in their mission to create a crime-free construction sector. The National Construction Summit represents a significant step toward this goal, emphasising collaboration and a shared commitment to a safe, productive, and sustainable future for South Africa’s construction industry.

Event Details

• Date: Tuesday, 19 November 2024
• Time: 08h30 – 17h30
• Venue: International Convention Centre, Durban
• Google Maps Link: Durban ICC Location

Media Enquiries

James De Villiers
Ministry Spokesperson
Tel: 082 766 0276

Media RSVP and Registration

Sibusiso Mtungwa
Public Eye Media
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Cell: 067 608 6549
WhatsApp: 073 274 0501

Bukiwe Cimela
DPWI
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Cell: 076 420 8184

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DPWI and cidb to Host Crime-Free Construction Summit
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