A public project can look impressive when the ribbon is cut, but the real test comes later when the cracks begin to show.
That is when contractors who cut corners could find themselves facing a costly punishment from government.
Minister of Transport and Public Works Jappie Mhango has warned that government will deregister contractors who deliver substandard work on public projects.
Mhango said government will not tolerate shoddy workmanship, stressing that contractors must meet the standards and timelines set in their contracts.
Speaking on Saturday at Ng’onga Community Day Secondary School (CDSS) during the launch of reformed Rumphi North Constituency Development Fund (CDF) projects, Mhango said he has powers to take action against non-compliant contractors.
The projects include the construction of a K699 million girls’ hostel at Ng’onga CDSS.
“Through the Construction Industry Regulatory Authority (CIRA), I have powers to deregister a contractor for reasons such as delivery of substandard works and failure to complete a project within the agreed contract period despite being provided with all necessary resources,” said Mhango.
Meanwhile, Sub-Traditional Authority Mwang’onga has welcomed the hostel project, saying it is expected to reduce school dropout among girls in the area.
The traditional leader said some learners currently travel at least 10 kilometres to reach school, a situation he described as a major factor contributing to school dropout.
