The province’s Premier, Job Mokgoro, and Human Settlements MEC, Mmoloki Cwaile, are in a ceremony beginning at 10 am expected to sign a memorandum of understanding with the provincial leadership of South African Women in Construction (SAWIC). This memorandum sets to advance transformation in the sector by ensuring women form part of the human settlements delivery chain. 

OFM News’ Olebogeng Motse reports, the province’s human settlements department has come under fire of late for underperforming and poor audit outcomes.

The Minister of Public Service and Administration, Senzo Mchunu, recently revealed in his written response to a question posed on the Parliamentary Monitoring Group site, that the North West Department of Human Settlements is the only provincial department that received a disclaimer or adverse finding from the Auditor-General for the 2019/2020 financial year. Mchunu further added that no performance bonuses were paid to the North West Human Settlements nor any other departments that are regarded as underperforming.

The underperformance has been underscored by the growth of informal settlements and housing backlogs in the province.

With regards to the issue of transformation, the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) recently stated that the construction industry in South Africa is making strides with regards to gender parity. According to CIDB, roughly 48% of construction companies are owned by women. An indication that whilst still male-dominated, the industry is already transforming.

OFM News