Construction key economic driver, says Kafwaya

Government has acknowledged that skills capacity enhancement in the construction sector is vital in responding to short, medium and long term demands for residential and infrastructure development as well as maintenance provision in a more efficient and professional manner.

Works and Supply Minster Mutotwe Kafwaya says this is because the construction industry is currently experiencing a tightening in the supply of skilled labour.

Mr. Kafwaya says the construction industry continues to be a growth sector contributing significantly to the economy of Zambia.

Speaking when officiated at the Lafarge Zambia contractors’ workshop, Mr. Kafwaya says it is for this reason that government will continue investing heavily in the development and maintenance of education, health, transportation, communication and power generation infrastructure.

Mr. Kafwaya has commended Lafarge Zambia for complementing government’s effort in ensuring that the general populous benefits from the affordable housing and commercial properties, through efforts of a well skilled labour force.

Speaking earlier, Lafarge Zambia Interim Chief Executive Officer Raphael Chipoma says the workshop will not only bring value to the contractors, but also provides an opportunity to strengthen the link between the material producers and the industry.

Mr. Chipoma notes that sustainable construction can only be achieved with continuous improvement in the construction designs, materials used and home building solutions.

And National Association of Small and Medium Scale Contractors President Mutale Mpepo has commended Lafarge Zambia for providing skills to local contractors through the workshop.