Some of the issues that newly elected South African Institution of Civil Engineering (Saice) president for 2025 Friedrich Slabbert will focus on are advancing professionalism in the construction sector and helping to ensure resilient infrastructure.

During the inauguration of the organisation’s new president, prior president for 2024 Andrew Clothier listed the most prominent challenges in the construction sector as being aging infrastructure and asset mismanagement, as well as construction mafia activity.

He pointed out that South Africa is already one of the 30 driest countries in the world and that it is moving from water scarce to water stressed as a result of aging infrastructure.

“Demand will outstrip supply by 2030 and the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure is losing 25% of water owing to leakages. This while 90% of the country’s 824 wastewater treatment plans have reached capacity.  

In turn, the construction mafia has impacted on projects worth more than R69-billion and hindered their progress. Clothier said it has become crucial for organisations to tackle this issue alongside government.

This is further complicated by fee discounts which have become a pressing issue. Saice is of the view that the sector should return to established guidelines regarding fee structures to eliminate unsustainable discount arrangements that can potentially impact safety and quality.

“The lack of expertise in managing tenders is also a key issue. Often institutions issue tenders without the skills required to adjudicate or manage them once awarded and it is a situation that needs to be managed effectively in 2025,” Clothier stated.

There is also a shift towards deeper professionalisation of our industry, with many education institutions prioritising the Identification of Engineering Work qualification that is anticipated to require compliance by April 1, 2025.

While there remain concerns, this is set to have a positive impact on the industry.

On the other hand, Clothier highlighted positive aspects in the sector in the year as the Infrastructure South Africa entity having listed investment for rail utility and ports at R30-billion.

The rail sector is improving, with an increasing number of tenders and anticipated developments over the next few years.

Eskom, in turn, has prioritised more than 100 energy projects valued at R240-billion alongside 40 green energy projects worth R300-billion for 2024/25. These initiatives are anticipated to create around 500 000 jobs and make significant inroads towards achieving net zero carbon emissions.

Clothier said his presidential year was marked by extensive engagement across various sectors within civil engineering and he was optimistic about the future of the industry as well as the opportunities for growth and sustainability.

The inauguration of the incoming president also highlighted the experience that Slabbert was bringing to the table.

“Analytical, capable of breaking down complex issues into manageable components to find solutions, quick to think out the box and bring new perspectives, Slabbert brings intellect and compassion to the role. He has the ability to analyse and resolve chaos by collaborating with his teams and leading by example,” Clothier commented.

Saice’s theme for 2025 is ‘from mowing the lawn to shaping the future’, which underpins the critical role the organisation plays in developing infrastructure within the country and its goal to advance professionalism, advocate for sustainable and resilient infrastructure and champion excellence

Just as a lawn requires ongoing care, so do the projects under Saice’s care which asks that the work done by the organisation maintains steady commitment, active participation, and a willingness to address challenges head on.

“It is time to be proactive,” Clothier highlighted, adding that values of serving others and accountability are crucial. He also emphasised the importance of partnerships and collaboration in the face of obstacles.

“We must continue our efforts in education, professional development and inclusivity. This includes mentorship programmes, workshops, and online networking opportunities that bring about genuine engagement and involve communities.

“Looking ahead we need to commit to improving engagement within Saice and our communities by fostering collaboration and focusing on shared goals to enhance our impact and advance the field of civil engineering,” Clothier concluded.