The recently launched Contractor Framework by the Western Cape Department of Human Settlements will have a transformative effect on the construction industry in the province. The framework, the first of its kind in South Africa, will particularly target women and youth contractors to support them in growing their businesses and breaking through into new markets.
Successful construction businesses, majority owned by women; black youth or black persons with disabilities will enter into a three year agreement where, should they meet the criteria for specific contracts, they may easily submit quotations. The framework aims to assist these businesses in becoming as competitive as possible.
MPP Matlhodi Maseko says: “I will be inviting the provincial Department to brief the Standing Committee on this transformative framework which will bolster and support our women, youth and persons with disabilities in the construction industry in the Western Cape. It has been a key issue of the Department to support historically disadvantaged individuals and particularly women and youth.
In the last financial year, the Department exceeded its targets of appointing women and youth contractors – many of them Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). In fact, 67% of the Human Settlements Development Grant was spent on SMMEs. Using government resources to not only to deliver services to vulnerable communities and beneficiaries but also to create opportunities for businesses and individuals means that resources are always leveraged for the benefit of all.
I encourage all contractors who qualify to apply before the 25th of February 2022. Tender documents can be collected from the offices of the Department in both Cape Town and George.”