The impact of Covid-19 on our industry was our key concern throughout March 2020 and most membership activity centred around it.

In Durban, the Association met with FEM to engage on issues around Covid-19. The correct process to follow in order to claim, in the event that an employee falls ill through exposure was discussed. It was noted that FEM would apply a process of consideration and adjudication to determine acceptance or repudiation of claims. The Association also engaged with the CIDB on behalf of members who had queries with regard to CIDB applications.  

In the Midlands, the Association met with TCF Assessing (PTY) LTD to facilitate engagement with a large insurance group with whom they work, motivating the benefits of utilising contractors belonging to the Association for insurance related projects. The potential for minimising potential disputes stemming from construction related issues by utilising members was well received. Further engagement is planned for after lockdown.

Prior to the lockdown announcement, news out of the Zululand Area was that work on the Wilmar Processing facility at Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ), was expected to commence in the next few weeks.

Wilmar Processing Project Director, Donovan Matlala announced that construction of the R1.3-billion crude vegetable oil refining facility would have many benefits for the communities in and around the Richards Bay area. He noted that following extensive discussions with RBIDZ and the company’s commitment to partnering with the communities wherein they operate, they were committed to spending 30% of the project value in Richards Bay and its surrounding areas. He noted that SMMEs would have an opportunity to participate as suppliers of services and equipment to the project.  Sub-contractors would also be given the opportunity to tender on piling, site clearance and fencing, roads, pipe fabrication and erection and the erection of tanks and non-process buildings. The Association is optimistic that the project will generate future work for members in the Zululand area. 

Master Builders KwaZulu-Natal welcomes the following new member companies that joined the Association in March 2020.

• Platinum Projects
• High End General Construction
• BA Builders
• Khonka Consulting and Construction (Pty) Ltd
• Joyisa Group Primary Co-operative Ltd
• Siyakhulisa Skills Academy
• Maspro Engineering
• Rollo Roofing (Pty) Ltd

We look forward to their participation and to servicing their membership requirements.

Ernest Roper | Membership Services Manager