Supplied by CESA
Consulting Engineers South Africa (CESA) acknowledges the reforms highlighted in the 2024 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) by Minister Enoch Godongwana, particularly the emphasis on infrastructure development.
Minister Godongwana outlined a strategy anchored on four key pillars: maintaining macroeconomic stability, implementing structural reforms, supporting growth-enhancing infrastructure, and building state capability. The aim of which, the Minister explained, “is to boost economic activity and enable higher growth over the medium term. In this regard, we are implementing reforms that will create conditions to attract greater private sector participation.”
CESA CEO Chris Campbell asserts that while there was a strong focus on infrastructure in the MTBPS, there are significant concerns regarding the current fiscal constraints facing the country.
Campbell states, “If we intend to spend money on infrastructure, we must recognise that without adequate funding, we risk stagnation in economic growth and further decline.”
He emphasises that the government must strategically target expenditure gaps to maximise impact and ensure that infrastructure investments lead to tangible economic benefits.
“The need for a focused approach is critical.” Campbell urges that addressing these financial challenges is essential to prevent the country from falling into a cycle of underinvestment and missed opportunities for growth.
“The time for action is now,” he insists, highlighting the urgency of implementing effective strategies that not only aim for immediate improvements but also foster long-term economic stability.
As CESA continues to advocate for robust infrastructure developmental policies, Campbell reaffirms the organisation’s commitment to collaborating with government and industry stakeholders to drive meaningful change and enhance South Africa’s economic landscape.