Government to Blacklist Poorly Performing Construction Firms
Zimtimes Reporter
Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona announced a stringent new policy aimed at improving the quality of road construction in the country. During a recent session in Parliament, Mhona stated that the government will now blacklist firms that fail to meet required standards in their roadwork contracts.
Responding to questions from Members of Parliament, Mhona emphasized the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in public spending. “Yes, it is very true that the Second Republic is very different from the former. In the past, companies would deliver shoddy work and still receive payment. This time, we will only release funds after we are satisfied that the job has been completed to our standards,” he said.
Mhona reassured the public that the government is taking concrete steps to ensure that taxpayer money is used effectively. “Do not be troubled if you find areas where the road has not been constructed well. Section 298 of our regulations mandates transparency and accountability. We are returning to the people of Zimbabwe to ensure that the money they invest leads to quality work.”
The minister elaborated on the consequences for firms that do not meet performance expectations. “We blacklist for bad workmanship. If you are blacklisted, it means you will not receive any contracts again. If a company delivers a substandard job, we will require them to redo the work until we are satisfied, and only then will they receive payment.”
Mhona’s comments come as part of a broader initiative to enhance the quality of infrastructure in Zimbabwe. The government is working closely with the Committee on Transport to monitor the performance of construction firms and enforce these new standards.
As the nation grapples with deteriorating road conditions, this policy aims to hold contractors accountable and ensure that public infrastructure projects are completed efficiently and to a high standard.
