South Africa has signed two significant declarations of intent with China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) and ASI Global during President Cyril Ramaphosa's State Visit to China. These agreements are expected to support South Africa’s ambitions of transforming the nation into a hub of construction, economic growth, and job creation.
Dean Macpherson, South Africa’s Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, accompanied the President on the visit to bolster efforts to turn South Africa into a thriving construction site. Macpherson highlighted that these agreements are part of a broader strategy to grow the economy and generate thousands of new jobs.
The agreement with CCCC will invite the company to participate in bids through South Africa's Public Management Finance Act (PMFA) for construction and development projects, such as municipal works, public-owned buildings, fishing harbours, and small ports. Meanwhile, the agreement with ASI Global aims to develop construction talent in South Africa and provide professional development opportunities.
Since taking office, Minister Macpherson has been committed to utilizing the Public Works portfolio to stimulate economic growth through infrastructure development. "The declarations of intent signed during bilateral meetings in China mark an important step towards achieving that goal," said Macpherson.
He emphasized the importance of CCCC and ASI Global as key players in their respective fields, stating that their expertise will contribute to South Africa’s infrastructure and construction sectors. The Minister is optimistic that these partnerships will pave the way for large-scale construction projects, ultimately benefiting people across the country.
In the coming months, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure will build on these initial agreements to address potential challenges and move forward with construction initiatives. Macpherson is eager to see the collaboration between South Africa and these international firms take shape, stating, "Let us build South Africa."