Premier Lesufi Addresses the 55 DID Distressed Projects @GPL House Sitting

Today, the Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi addressed questions regarding 55 Department of Infrastructure Development (DID) delayed and incomplete projects during the Gauteng Provincial Legislature House Sitting. The session? engaged the Premier and Members of Executive Council (MECs) on pressing service delivery issues, and efforts being made to resolve the stalled projects across the province.

According to Premier Lesufi, “The DID has 55 incomplete and distressed infrastructure projects as a result of cashflow issues, stoppages by subcontractors, and business forums, unresolved municipal mandates as well as vandalism. I am pleased to announce that the MEC for Infrastructure Development and COGTA, Jacob Mamabolo has introduced the Infrastructure Delivery Platform (IDEP), a tool that will be used to fast-track all the distressed projects whilst enhancing transparency and communication with the Client Departments. In a bid to improve accountability, the DID has taken decisive action by terminating contracts of service providers who failed to comply with contract procedures. The committee will compile a list of restricted suppliers and contractors to be sent to National Treasury to initiate the blacklisting process”.

The MEC for Infrastructure Development and CoGTA, Jacob Mamabolo addressed the challenges faced by the Bekkersdal Social Integrated Facility project, noting that delays were largely caused by compensation events during the contract phase. MEC Mamabolo explained that other factors contributing to the delay included a change in the project scope and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, both of which slowed down progress. Despite these setbacks. The remaining work at the facility includes electrical and mechanical installations, remedial works, and the installation of furniture. MEC Mamabolo also provided an update on the developments at Thubelihle Secondary School, confirming that a new contractor has already been appointed to complete the outstanding work at the school.