CONFUSION OVER MASS HOUSING PROJECT
Transcription
CONFUSION OVER MASS HOUSING PROJECT
Building Namibia’s Future Volume 5 – Issue 1 – June/July 2014 CONFUSION OVER MASS HOUSING PROJECT The intention of Namibia’s N$45 billion Mass Housing Project is to build 185 000 houses by 2030. The custodian of the project, National Housing Enterprise (NHE), received a lot of media coverage. Focus on the state-owned enterprise peaked, with questions of whether or not the initial two-year pilot phase of the mega development would be put on hold and whether indeed the organisations should remain in charge of the project. Concern about the allocation of tenders and the selection processes involved; alleged disagreement between the Ministry of Regional and Local Government, Housing and Rural Development and the NHE; differences between local authorities and the NHE about the ownership and/or servicing of land; as well as concerns about the increased costs of building (N$6,000 per square metre instead of the agreed N$5,000 per square metre) all appear to have contributed to the apparent confusion. Although, derailment of a project of such national importance - as it addresses the severe shortage of and access to housing for low income earners – is not being tolerated by Namibia’s government, especially as the mass housing initiative has the full backing and indeed was launched by According media reports, figures that had been provided by the NHE, indicate that the building of each house would create continued on page 3 » Also inside: President Hifikepunye Pohamba end of 2013. Some of the most senior government officials were said to have had a meeting with the President who was said to have insisted that the project needs to proceed with the NHE remaining in charge. Phase one, the pilot phase of the project is planned to run for two years, targeting 14 regional capitals at an estimated cost of N$2.7 billion. About 9,000 housing units are expected to be built while 10,200 plots are expected to be serviced between February 2014 and August 2015. The programme was planned to be accelerated in the remaining years CONTRIBUTIONS EDITORIAL RIGHTS Please send all contributions to [email protected] We will cover your information on new tender awards, product developments, new appointments, events, as well as any other information you deem relevant. Should you wish us to follow up on any stories or trends, please let us know. You can also contact us for advertising in our publication at [email protected] The CIF reserves the right to edit any submissions and make corrections, omit material, or do minor reorganisation as required to achieve a reasonably consistent look and feel, to any submitted work. The CIF also reserves the right to reject any submissions for any reason. This may not be a reflection of the quality of the material. Though we would consider relevance to the audience and whether the material is too redundant with existing or planned material. Construction Industries Federation of Namibia P.O. Box 1479, Windhoek, Namibia to ensure that about 12,000 houses are built per year in different parts of the country until 2018. Tel. +264 (0) 61- 230028, Fax: +264 (0) 61- 224534 e-mail: [email protected] www.cifnamibia.com Construction Industry drives economy page 2 9.5 % Minimum Wage Increase page 8 TRAINING Training Levy alone is not enough page 9 Sponsor or advertise on our website www.cifnamibia.com Improved functionality of the website allows tender boards and other employers to advertise their invitation for tender on our website. Please email us to [email protected] or call us on 061-230028. Editorial: Construction Industries Federation Layout: GeeArt | www.geeart.com 1 ECONOMIC DIGEST Budget Supports Infrastructure Development The 2014/2015 national budget showed an increase in government spending; expenditure was projected to an amount of about N$60.1 billion during the fiscal year from 1 April to the end of March 2015. Construction is expected to contribute the most to the growth in the economy this year. A total capital investment amounting to about 20 per cent of Namibia’s GDP was planned to be pumped into the ongoing construction of what will be one of the largest uranium mines in the world. Government has also allocated N$1.6 billion to NamPower over the next three years to finance the 800 mega-watt Kudu Gas Power Plant. Transnamib and Namport were allocated 247 and 100 million Namibian Dollar, respectively. The Finance Minister highlighted logistics development as an NDP 4 priority and added that proper road and rail network facilities are crucial in order to support the port of Walvis Bay as a true transportation hub for the region. The Targeted Intervention Programme for Employment and Economic Growth (TIPEEG) has been allocated a total of N$14.5 billion over a three-year period. Since its launch in March 2011, the programme was said to have created an estimated 83,315 jobs, of which 15, 829 are permanent jobs and 67, 485 are temporary jobs. Or you could bubble wrap your house Alexander Forbes is a leading provider of international insurance services. Get access to a wide range of personal and business insurance solutions designed to meet your short-term insurance needs. For insurance solutions that work, call Windhoek +264 (61) 270 4700, Swakopmund +264 (64) 414 900, email [email protected] or visit www.alexanderforbes.co.za INSURANCE Construction Industry drives economy Namibia’s construction industry is expected to experience growths of nearly 9% year-on-year until 2016 according to a recent report by the Institute for Public Policy Research. This growth is owed to various expansive projects countrywide such as the Walvis Bay port expansion and Husab Mine in the west, Tschudi Copper mine and Neckartal Dam in the south, The Grove Mall and Freedom Plaza in the central regions, and Otjikoto Gold mine in the northern parts. Government’s mass housing scheme and the construction of new hotels and residential buildings are among the other developments that will contribute to growth in the construction industry. This growth will trickle over to the manufacturing sector that supplies materials and subsequently the transportation sector. Financial institutes as main funders will reap direct monetary rewards through lending and interest. Construction is a highly labour intensive operation and will thus have a beneficial effect on the labour market. Workers will have more buying power owing to income from construction jobs, this will reflect positively on the wholesale and retail trade sector. However, growth will be short-lived as the major supporting policies by government such as the Targeted Intervention Programme for Employment and Economic Growth (TIPEEG) are short-term. Government needs to unlock the full potential of the energy sector and attract sufficient private capital for mega projects to sustain the building boom in the long-run. The inflation rate in 2014 is forecasted to remain unchanged from the previous year at an average 5.6% according to IJG Securities. This indicates a 1.2 percentage points drop from the average level seen in 2012, of 6.8%. Annual inflation increased slightly from 4.9% in December 2013; 0.5 percentage points higher than the 4.4% in November. This rise was caused by increases in the prices of food, alcohol, clothing, education and miscellaneous products in the final month of the year. The month on month change in inflation was a 0.1% increase in December, down from a 0.3% increase between 2 October and November. The slowdown was on account of lower prices in communications, which fell from 0.2% inflation to deflation of 1.2%. Health price inflation also decreased, going from 0.5% to 0.0%, and housing and utilities inflation fell from 1.1% to 0. 4%. Not withstanding one of the most severe droughts in recent memory, as well as sluggish global economic environment the Namibian economic is estimated to have recorded a respectable growth rate of 4.4 percent in 2013. The International Monetary Fund estimates the growth of the world economy at 3.0 percent and Africa’s largest economy at only 1.8 percent, both below the Namibian growth rate. GDP growth was led by secondary and primary industries in 2013, which expanded by 8.7 percent and 6.4 percent, respectively, over the previous year. The secondary industries growth was bolstered by the construction industry and is estimated to have expanded by 35% owing to increased investment in the mineral sector and public infrastructure. Notable growth rates in the tertiary sector include the transport and communication sector with a growth of 8.3 %. The performance was influenced by the transport subsector that recorded an increase of 13.8 percent whilst the storage subsector declined by 4.9 percent. Hotels and restaurants, financials intermediations and public administration and health sectors all recorded a healthy growth of respectively 10.6 %, 14.1 %, and 8.8 %. Other sectors that performed relatively well are wholesale and retail, real estate and business services registering marginal growth of 4.3 % and 3.9 %, respectively. Unfortunately the primary industries did not perform that well, with the agricultural sector leading the decline by an estimated 26.9%. The fishing and the mining sectors declined by 2.6% and 1.2% respectively leading to an aggregated overall industries contraction of 9.3%. Hats Off is a digest of news, some of which have appeared in other media. Items have not been independently verified by the CIF. Consequently, we cannot accept any liability. It is sent free of charge to members of the CIF and other stakeholders in Namibia’s construction industry. BUSINESS & INDUSTRY DIGEST INDUSTRY NEWS Confusion Over Mass Housing Project » continued from page 1 approximately 2.5 new jobs. The first phase of the project would create an estimated 20,556 new jobs, which are expected to be sustained for the entire duration of the programme and may slightly increase in some cases. The tender conditions required international and local companies to have a construction track record of a minimum of 2,000 and 250 houses, respectively. NHE apparently took the decision to relax this requirement to prevent local companies from losing out on opportunities. This allowed Namibian companies to contract for smaller projects (20-50 houses). The chief executive officer of the NHE, Mr. Vinson Hailulu was said to have explained that experience in large scale construction was not a guarantee that companies would deliver and to have insisted that supervision and project management systems would ensure that tender objectives would be fulfilled. Furthermore, according to media reports it had been stated that tender terms required successful foreign companies to go into joint ventures with local companies by giving up a minimum of 30% to Namibian companies. There seems to be an ongoing concern regarding companies who were said not to have operated in the building industry before and not to have the capacity and to only function as a middle person. The NHE had dismissed these claims and was said to intend dealing with those who do not deliver. Construction of Transkalahari High Way Construction of the estimated N$100 billion Trans-Kalahari Railway (TKR) line connecting Namibia and Botswana is about to get underway following signing of the agreement by Namibia’s National Planning Commission Director-General, Tom Alweendo and Botswana’s Minister of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources, Onkokame Mokaila. » continued from page 1 The agreement which includes construction of a coal terminal and loading facilities was signed at Bird Island near Walvis Bay, the exact location where the Namibia Ports Authority (Namport) intends to construct the North Port Bulk Container Terminal. The container terminal will be used among others to store coal transported from Botswana via the new railway line and will handle about 65 million metric tons of coal per annum for export to energy intensive countries like China and India. or, alternatively that of of the African Development Bank, depending on the financier of the sub-project. Development of the railway line will start later this year and is expected to be completed by 2019. Once completed the TKR will stimulate economic growth, employment and diversification in the two countries in the medium to long term. It will also benefit landlocked Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries such as Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe by providing alternative transportation routes. More information about the remainder of the contracts to be procured will only be available when their respective tenders are advertised publicly. Prospective suppliers are therefore encouraged to keep watch on the Namport website for such tender advertisements. Walvis Bay Port Development Implementation of Namport’s port development project is starting to pick up steam. The project is in the procurement stage with China Harbour Engineering Company limited (CHEC) already appointed as main EPC contractor on 8 November 2013. Afrisay Group Holdings has been awarded the contract to do all recruitment related activities. Several smaller contracts will still be procured over the next 3 years. These smaller contracts consist of both consulting services as well as works and goods contracts. All tenders will be advertised on the Namport website as well as other public domains. Where applicable, the allocation of contracts will be according to Namport’s procurement policy The CEO of Namport, Mr. Bisey Uirab emphasised that the company will not be involved in the selection and appointment of subcontractors, suppliers and vendors at a recent business breakfast hosted at Manica’s Talent Development Centre. Local contractors are thus advised to directly contact CHEC and Afrisay Group Holdings regarding tender and job opportunities. National Housing Enterprise’s Credit Policy makes is clear that low cost houses provided by the institution are not intended for those that see the scheme as an investment opportunity. It is indeed considered only for those that are on the waiting list and that will live in the property themselves. It is essentially considered for first time buyers. If a married couple already owns a property – jointly or not – they would not be able to apply for second property in the household. The maximum monthly gross income for an individual is N$20,000 beyond which he/she would no longer become eligible for a low cost house. For a couple the threshold is N$30,000. With a market value of N$ 75 billion the Government Institutions Pension Fund (GIPF) is offering finance for new home owners. Civil servants are said to become eligible for loans double than what they would have qualified for at commercial banks. The latter normally do not offer loans that would require monthly repayments that exceed a third of the monthly income. First Capital Housing Fund (FCHF) who will be responsible for the administration of the scheme on behalf of GIPF indicate that they are likely to offer loans with a monthly repayment of up to 50% of the continued on page 4 » Hats Off is a digest of news, some of which have appeared in other media. Items have not been independently verified by the CIF. Consequently, we cannot accept any liability. It is sent free of charge to members of the CIF and other stakeholders in Namibia’s construction industry. 3 BUSINESS & INDUSTRY DIGEST individual’s monthly income. Collateral for the loan will be the funded property. Construction of the Otjikoto open pit gold mine remains on schedule to commence gold production in late 2014. All major excavations on the project are complete. The only substantial earthworks project remaining is the relocation of a gravel district road. More than 16,000 cubic metres of concrete have been poured and less than 10% of the total volume remains outstanding. Steel erection continues on site and millwrights are currently installing the crusher and milling circuits. All material earthworks in the tailings pond have been completed and water has been captured from the rainy season to start the mill. Employees and contractors on site now total about 1,000. Mining remains on budget with 2014 forecasts and more than 7.5 million tonnes have been moved since pit inception. The project team has recently begun to mine ore and is placing material on the stockpile in anticipation for start-up. The projected average annual production for the first five years is approximately 141,000 ounces of gold per year at an average operating cash cost of $525 per ounce and for the LOM approximately 112,000 ounces of gold per year at an average operating cash cost of $689 per ounce. Construction of the controversial N$2.8 billion Neckartal Dam project in the //Karas Region commenced in November last year. The project headed by Italian company Salini S.p.A currently employs a total of 120 skilled and semi-skilled workers. Baby Face Civils, a local contractor is busy with constructing three accommodation buildings for the 1 000 workers expected to be employed at the dam. Other work currently underway include the construction of storage facilities and the excavation of the road to the river where a catchment area will be built. Mining operations at Swakop Uranium’s Husab project site formally started on 8 May 2014. President Hifikepunye Pohamba, recognised the Husab Mine as a significant project making Namibia one of the biggest uranium producing countries in the world. He praised » continued from page 3 Swakop Uranium for the excellent quality of the accommodation and living facilities for workers on site, where up to 4 000 workers will be housed.He further encouraged workers to cherish employment opportunities at the Husab mine construction site and that as a national workforce, Namibians should focus on improving Namibia’s productivity. Power lines and the permanent access road are in place, and the permanent water pipeline and reservoirs are progressing well. Construction of two sizable world-class shopping centres in Windhoek is at an advanced stage. The N$920 million Grove Shopping Centre, a 54 000m² retail mall in Kleine Kuppe developed by the Frontier Property Trust, Atterbury and Demushuwa property is on course for its opening in September 2014. The centre forms part of the Hilltop Estate, a mixed-use development of 220 000m² that will include the shopping centre, box users and showrooms, a 150-bed hospital, medical research offices and doctor rooms, hotel, offices and upmarket residential units. United Africa Group is now in Phase two of its N$2 billion mixed-use development known as Freedom Plaza following the completion of Hilton Hotel Namibia in 2011. Phase two includes the seven floor-70 luxury apartment ‘Independence 1990 Building’ due for completion later this year, a new FNB head office and a world class retail park. For any advertising and sponsorship opportunities please contact us! Send an email to [email protected] or call us on 061-230028. Do you want to become a CIF member? There are many advantages. For membership enquiries, please contact [email protected] or call us on 061-230028. Alternatively, please find our membership application form as attached. 4 Hats Off is a digest of news, some of which have appeared in other media. Items have not been independently verified by the CIF. Consequently, we cannot accept any liability. It is sent free of charge to members of the CIF and other stakeholders in Namibia’s construction industry. NEW MEMBERS’ PROFILES Below you will find the profile of some of the members who have joined the CIF since last year June. The CIF has a membership of over 400 companies. Basil Read Construction Namibia (Pty) Ltd Owner Tel Fax Email Postal Mr. Tyrone Gilbert 064-511088 0027-86-6004476 [email protected] P.O. Box 578, Swakopmund, Namibia Established in 2003, Basil Read Construction Namibia forms part of the JSE-Listed Basil Read Holdings Group. Continuously striving for professionalism and uncompromising standards in health, safety and environmental aspects, Basil Read Construction Namibia, aims to deliver technically-challenging, fast-tracked projects on time and within budget. Its multidisciplinary portfolio includes construction, mining, building, developments and energy. Roads projects include the Katima to Kongola Project (2005), the Gobabus to Otjinene Project (2012) and the new Husab mine access road. In addition, it’s mining division has operated at both the Rossing and Trekkopje mines (2008-2012). BCS cc Owner Tel Fax Email Postal Mr. Walter Marko 067-304397 067-301288 [email protected] P.O. Box 326, Otjiwarongo, Namibia BCS cc was established in 1996. Since the year 2000, they have specialised in the production of standard and super bricks as well the manufacturing of hollow blocks and pavers. BCS also supplies and delivers building sand, stone and crushed stone (split). Soon, a new paver and brick manufacturing plant will be established which will further improve the product range. Delta Electrix Owner Tel Fax Email Postal Mr Hanjo Horn 064-202499 064-202411 [email protected] P.O. Box 3302, Walvis Bay, Namibia Delta Electrix is an electrical company established in 2005. Although based in Walvis Bay, they complete projects all over Namibia and in Angola. They specialise in electrical installation (domestic, commercial and industrial) and electrical maintenance. Delta Electrix also offers professional service for air conditioning, electric fencing, automation and bakery equipment. It recently became a heat pump distributer and service agent for an international company. Dragao Investments Owner Tel Email Postal Mr. Abraham Hamukwaya 065-238020 [email protected] P.O. Box 90002, Ongwediva, Namibia Its principal business is unrivalled in the areas of construction, steel structure and roofing, property development, supply and distribution, plant and equipment hiring, import and exports, dry-cleaning, investments, transportation and ancillary services. Situated in Ongwediva, Namibia, Dragao Investments aims to expand to the markets of neighbouring countries such as Angola, Botswana, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Electro Centre cc Owner Tel Fax Email Postal Mr. Stephen Sserwada & Ms. Rachel Shilomboleni 065-240890 065-240893 [email protected] P.O. Box 80627, Windhoek, Namibia Electro Centre was fully established in June 2009. It is an accredited installer and supplier of renewable energy products with the Ministry of Mines and Energy, and the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, Institute of Polytechnic (REEEI). Electro Centre is trading in air-conditioning materials, refrigeration and generator techniques, and solar systems in the installation field with the weight lying in Electrical. The company supports various plants with a maintenance program in the fields of mechanical and construction. Furthermore contracting on tender base, service and repairs of electrical appliances are part of the work scope. Electro Dynamics Owner Tel Fax Email Postal Mr. David J Mostert 064-400323 064-400324 [email protected] P.O. Box 2974, Swakopmund, Namibia Electro Dynamics is an electrical wholesaler situated in Swakopmund Namibia, from where they supply and deliver electrical services to any Namibian town. Electro Dynamics aims to provide consumers with only efficient and competent products and services. They supply electrical services to projects ranging from mines, hotels, commercial, residential and large industries. Electro Dynamics is well known for always sourcing affordable stock should they be short of it. They guarantee prompt and professional service which makes consumers feel at home when transacting with them Electro Repairs Owner Tel Fax Email Postal Werner & Renate Bader 061-254064 061-254065 [email protected] P.O. Box 80627, Windhoek, Namibia Electro Repairs was fully established in February 1996. Electro Repairs is trading in the electrical and mechanical repairs and installation field, with the weight lying in industrial electronics. The company supports various plants with a maintenance program. Furthermore contracting on tender base and switchboard manufacturing are part of the work scope. The agricultural field is also covered by borehole and solar system installations. Hue-Waldt Electrical & Construction Owner Tel Fax Email Postal Mr. Hueston Groenewaldt 061-400234 061-400234 [email protected] P.O. Box 90893, Klein Windhoek, Namibia Hue-Waldt Electrical & Construction (HWEC) is primarily an electrical contracting company owned by Hueston Groenewaldt. HWEC was registered on 11 April 2008 and they currently have a labour force of 38 permanently employed registered employees (technicians, electricians, skilled workers, crane operators, drill operators, drivers). Moreover they also make use of temporary workers or casuals on sites where and when construction takes place. In 2012 HWEC widened their expertise to start with the construction of buildings, houses and complex units and they plan to expand in the near future with the construction of civil service disciplines. Hats Off is a digest of news, some of which have appeared in other media. Items have not been independently verified by the CIF. Consequently, we cannot accept any liability. It is sent free of charge to members of the CIF and other stakeholders in Namibia’s construction industry. 5 NEW MEMBERS’ PROFILES » MCC Equipment Rental (Pty) Ltd Owner Tel Fax Email Postal Mr. Wouter Joubert 064-462469 064-462467 [email protected] P.O. Box 4489, Swakopmund, Namibia MCC, the contract mining and plant rental division of Eqstra Holdings, was founded in 1972. Driven by determination and uncompromising commitment to providing service excellence, MCC has placed itself at the forefront of the surface contract mining and plant rental industries on the African continent. MCC is regarded as the market leader in terms of capability and expertise. Its plant rental division supports one of the largest earthmoving plant hire fleets servicing the civil engineering and earthmoving industries. Furthermore, MCC’s commitment is to provide drilling and blasting expertise to support the mining and earthmoving industry. Meyameno Property Investment cc Owner Tel Fax Email Postal Mr William Andre Pretorius 061-301950 061-301951 [email protected] P.O. Box 97185, Maerua Mall, Windhoek, Namibia Meyameno Property Investment cc is a telecommunications civil works contractor, tasked with building new overhead and underground copper, fibre optic as well as wireless networks for Telecom Namibia. They take pride in undertaking maintenance and new turnkey projects with enthusiasm, and professionalism that should be expected from a company committed to the ever-growing demand of the telecommunication industry. Being the preferred civil works contractor for Telecom Namibia for the past 10 years, they empower Namibians through the provision of employment, transfer of knowledge and skills, in-service training and the advancement of formally disadvantaged Namibian people. Midrand Investments cc Owner Tel Fax Email Postal c ontinued from page 5 Namiba Work Creation Enterprises cc Owner Tel Fax Email Postal Mr. Paulus Iipinge 081-1270658 088-640567 [email protected] P.O. Box 25869, Windhoek, Namibia Namibia Work Creation Enterprises cc (NWCE) is a wholly Namibian Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) construction company specialising in civil/structural, building and project management. NWCE express their support for the reconstruction and development initiatives of various countries, environmental protection and preservation of essential resources. NWCE interacts, networks and forms joint ventures with other organisations with the aim of transferring skills when required. The company has intentions to form business linkages with complementary professionals in multi-disciplinary projects. NWCE professes competent management, leadership, integrity, efficiency and the use of appropriate and cutting edge technology to yield the most cost effective results in all assignments. Rosebank Investments cc Owner Tel Fax Email Postal Mr. Monty Tjizongoro 081-1273388 088-642771 [email protected] P.O. Box 70594, Windhoek, Namibia Founded by Mr. Tjizongoro, Rosebank Investments cc has grown into a large electrical contractor in Windhoek, and also has a division located in Gobabis. Their superior project performance, professionalism and stability is evidently shown by their bond rating. From simple office electrical installations, to hospitals, schools, and interstate freeways, the mission is to deliver quality, value and consistent project execution. Rosebank Investments’ depth of expertise ranges from the subtle nuances of showroom lighting to the heavy construction requirements of traffic signals and power generation. Rware Trading Enterprises cc Mr. Monty Tjizongoro 081-1273388 088-642771 [email protected] P.O. Box 70594, Windhoek, Namibia Midrand Investments cc was formed by founder Mr. Tjizongoro. The activities of the company encompasses most types of electrical contracting and engineering for industrial and commercial electrical installations ranging from petrochemical and retail petroleum sites to computer centres and financial services organisations. The client base includes a wide range of companies and organisations such as banks, building societies, oil companies, universities, major retail outlets, local authorities and major developers. They offer a flexible approach to meet all customer requirements with works carried out from small repairs to major construction installations up to a value of millions of Namibian Dollars. Owner Tel Fax Email Postal Mr Gervasius Thikusho 081-2954069 066- 2688150 [email protected] P.O. Box 2626, Rundu, Namibia Rware Trading Enterprises was established at Rundu in 2011. The company currently has 14 employees and nature of business includes civil construction and electrical work, sand and gravel services, bridge (contractor and subcontractor) and building maintenance. In 2013 the company completed projects such as the construction and electrical wiring of a house in Rundu. This was valued at N$150 000. Furthermore Rware Trading completed the construction of an office building in Rundu valued at of N$350 000. Rware Trading Enterprises is currently involved in the electrical construction, for the Kavango West Regional Council which is valued at N$1 000 000. REFERENCES Sponsor or advertise on our website www.cifnamibia.com Improved functionality of the website allows tender boards and other employers to advertise their invitation for tender on our website. Please email us to [email protected] or call us on 061-230028. 6 http://sa-nam-news.blogspot.com/2014/02/namibia-national-budget-unveiled.html http://allafrica.com/stories/201402271218. http://www.nsa.org.na/files/downloads/039_Scanned_document_26-03-2014_13-25-00.pdf http://allafrica.com/stories/201401170110.html http://allafrica.com/stories/201405121203.html http://allafrica.com/stories/201405190628.htmla http://www.newera.com.na/2014/03/26/trans-kalahari-railway-deal-signed/ http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v7/wn/newsworld.php?id=1024318 http://www.namport.com.na/content/news.php?m=3&sm=0&op=show&e_id=1 http://www.namibtimes.net/forum/topics/namport-host-business-briefing http://www.newera.com.na/2014/02/24/nhe-eases-tender-requirements-local-contractors/ http://www.b2gold.com/projects/nambia/otjikoto-property.html http://sun.com.na/agriculture/over-100-employed-neckartal-dam.63236 http://www.ippr.org.na/sites/default/files/Economy_Watch_Feb%2014.pdf http://www.economist.com.na/markets/4810-construction-sector-to-drive-growth-in-2014 http://www.southerntimesafrica.com/articles/9493/Namibia-2014-15-National-Budget---SACU-boosts-revenue--while-salaries-push-upexpenditure----/#.UzVUxYVsNy9 Hats Off is a digest of news, some of which have appeared in other media. Items have not been independently verified by the CIF. Consequently, we cannot accept any liability. It is sent free of charge to members of the CIF and other stakeholders in Namibia’s construction industry. NEW MEMBERS’ PROFILES » Sandton Investments cc Owner Tel Fax Email Postal c ontinued from page 6 Uako Investments cc Mr. Monty Tjizongoro 081-1273388 088-642771 [email protected] P.O. Box 70594, Windhoek, Namibia Owner Tel Fax Email Postal Mr. Monty Tjizongoro 081-1273388 088-642771 [email protected] P.O. Box 70594, Windhoek, Namibia Sandton Investments cc is committed to providing quality and environmentally sustainable electrical installations and maintenance services. They are experienced in the field of commercial electrical and domestic installations and maintenance. Their full range of services includes, electrical installations, plumbing installations, electrical maintenance and repairs and household electrical installations. Sandton Investments cc employs a team of licensed electrical workers who have varying levels of experience. At any time, they can have a combination of experienced electrical contractors, trades assistants and apprentices on the sites. A proficient trained and qualified electrician is on available for every job they complete. Uako Investments cc is a small firm comprising of seven employees. They have one part-time and five full time electricians, as well as an administrative support person. Uako Investments cc is service orientated and regards client satisfaction as a number one priority. Their electricians have thirty years of combined experience. Each assignment, regardless of its size, is given personalised attention and service. In the fast paced, rapidly changing world of technology, their electricians along with their affiliated company Rosebank Investments cc, are expanding their services to include voice and data and fiber optics systems in both residential and commercial sites. Sunn Electric W/Bay Plant & Tool Hire Services cc Owner Tel Fax Email Postal Mr. Vincent Kotze 064-207067 064-220380 [email protected] P.O. Box 4321, Walvis Bay, Namibia Sunn Electric was established in 2008 and has been operating since as an electrical and mechanical contractor in Walvis Bay. They offer a wide range of services involving smaller repairs, maintenance and larger projects. The services include electrical fencing, video phones, magnetic door locks, access control, catering and laundry equipment supplies and repairs. Sunn Electric specialises in the make-up and supply of any elements for domestic, industrial and marine equipment. Talisman Hire Windhoek Owner Tel Fax Email Postal Mr. Alan Lang 061-234999 061-235306 [email protected] P.O. Box 86897, Eros, Windhoek, Namibia Talisman Hire Windhoek is part of the Talisman Hire Franchise which operates throughout Southern Africa. Hire includes a construction equipment solution provider in non-operator intensive and operator intensive equipment. Talisman Hire provides equipment to the mining, construction and agricultural industry. Ultimately, Talisman Hire offers a national network of franchised stores, and specialised equipment, supporting the needs, operations and requirements of our clients. Tumbu-Tumbu General Services cc Owner Tel Email Postal Mr. Meinolf Hamutenya 081-2148954 [email protected] P.O. Box 1593, Rundu, Namibia Tumbu-Tumbu General Services cc is a profit making business enterprise run by a close corporation member in the Rundu, which is approximately 700km north east of Windhoek in the Kavango Region. Tumbu-Tumbu undertakes the following business activities, building construction and renovations, rendering cleaning and debushing services to both private and public entities. Despite its location in Rundu, Tumbu-Tumbu business will migrate its activities where required. Owner Tel Fax Email Postal Mr. Reinhold Stauder 064-203787 064-205442 [email protected] P.O. Box 1149, Walvis Bay, Namibia Walvis Bay Plant & Tool Hire Services is an owner-managed company established 1997 and is based in Walvis Bay Namibia. They have a wide range of equipment available for leasing and also do transportation of normal and abnormal loads. The core business activities focus on leasing of heavy duty equipment to the marine, mining and industrial industries in Namibia. Their skilled workforce has both the experience and expertise in the services provided, which enables them to create and manage a total solution which meets the evolving needs of clients. MULTI - TOW NAMIBIA cc Trailers & Skip Containers Don’t get caught on the sidewalk*! This waste removal system might solve your problem *City of Windhoek: New Sidewalks Tariffs Due to great concern of the uses of the sidewalk against the applicable laws and regulations, the City of Windhoek has introduced the New Sidewalk Rent Permit as approved by Council to address and control the manner in which the sidewalk are being used. The tariff will be calculated as 1% of the municipal site value to be multiplied with the lease area and divided by the area of the Erf (1% of municipal site value x lease area of Erf = monthly sidewalk rent tariff). Please contact Günther or Fanie at 061-233693 for quotations Do you want to become a CIF member? There are many advantages. For membership enquiries, please contact [email protected] or call us on 061-230028. Alternatively, please find our membership application form as attached. Hats Off is a digest of news, some of which have appeared in other media. Items have not been independently verified by the CIF. Consequently, we cannot accept any liability. It is sent free of charge to members of the CIF and other stakeholders in Namibia’s construction industry. 7 BUSINESS SUPPORT 9.5 % MINIMUM WAGE INCREASE The promulgated collective agreement not only covers minimum wages for labourers and different categories of skilled and semi-skilled artisans, but also health and safety standards, minimum protective clothing, minimum productivity levels, living away allowances and The minimum wage is a legal requirement service allowance. for the building and construction industry at The CIF and MANWU emphasise the imporlarge; and is as a result of the collective agree- tance of adhering to minimum employment ment which had been negotiated between conditions in the construction industry, as the Construction Industries Federation of Na- promulgated in Government Gazette No. mibia (CIF) and the Metal and Allied Namibian 5372, Government Notice No. 334, of 24 DeWorkers Union (MANWU), which then was also cember 2013. enforced to become applicable to all compa- Housing and medical services had also been nies operating in the construction sector after key points on the agenda; and MANWU’s deit was gazetted on 24 December 2014. mands included a housing allowance as well Minimum wage increases of 9.5 % in Namibia’s construction industry are now in force and will be applicable as from 1 June 2014 to 31 May 2015. The increase in minimum wages follows a previous increase of 9% as from 15 September 2013. The negotiated wage increase is higher than in previous years, which was then 7.5% and 8%, respectively. With the simultaneous adjustment to the Service Allowance and taking into consideration an inflation rate, wages have effectively increased in real terms. as medical insurance. However, the CIF, despite recognising the need was more inclined to see these issues addressed at a national level. At the same time, a Task Force has been established and meets on a regular basis to address issues affecting workers in the industry. From the Editor – Bärbel Kirchner, Consulting General Manager of the CIF: “It is critical that all contractors – bona fide Namibian and foreign companies – in Namibia’s construction industry strive towards adherence of all laws, including minimum wage and employment conditions. “It is in everybody’s interest that the minimum wages are being paid across the industry, and that optimal work conditions are maintained. This will ensure the avoidance of costs differentiation to the detriment of workers in the industry and would help the industry in getting closer to a more equal playing field. “Enforcement of minimum employment conditions by the authorities is also critical. Construction sites must be visited regularly. It is therefore important that the capacity of the labour inspectorate will be enhanced; and that inspectors also acquaint themselves with the requirements as reflected in Government Gazette No. 5372.” The question of transport public transport is also an absolute require- There has to be a process of consultation ment and ultimately would have a direct im- where both the public and private sector Until recently, transport was provided by come together and focus on finding a solution some employers in the industry. The decision pact on the economy. to provide transport for workers to and from Without an efficient public transport system, that is efficient, safe and economically viable. construction sites was often as a result of employers looked for alternatives and offered In a meeting between the CIF and Metal and limited access to as well as limited availability transport to their employees. The general pub- Allied Namibian Worker’s Union (MANWU), on of public transport. A poor public transport lic opinion is that contractors should not be 18 February 2014, access to safe transport for system can lead to absenteeism, late arrival, allowed to transport workers on trucks. There workers again had been raised. It was agreed and early departure to and from work which is no legal obligation for contractors to pro- that both the CIF as well as MANWU would apresults in losses in productivity and ultimately vide transport unless explicitly mentioned in proach central, regional and local government affects the bottom line, which in turn will the contract of employment. Until companies authorities jointly, to ensure that future tender have a direct impact on the remuneration of have the financial capacity to procure buses requirements of public work projects would employees. for the transport of their staff, the ideal of the address the safe transfer of workers between This is not only in urban areas, but particularly employer providing transport in buses, re- their homes and their workplace. in the more remote areas. Improvement of mains unattainable. continued on page 9 » 8 Hats Off is a digest of news, some of which have appeared in other media. Items have not been independently verified by the CIF. Consequently, we cannot accept any liability. It is sent free of charge to members of the CIF and other stakeholders in Namibia’s construction industry. BUSINESS SUPPORT » continued from page 8 The question of transport This will ensure that the provision of adequate transport is explicitly budgeted for in all proposals. That would also mean that all companies submitting tenders would operate from a level playing field, and that all companies would not only provide transport adhering to the same safety standards but also that all companies involved with public tenders would also adhere to the negotiated minimum conditions in the industry. TRAINING Training Levy Alone Is Not Enough Employers, that have registered themselves with the Namibian Training Authority (NTA) by 27 February 2014, needed to have made their first levy payment in the middle of May 2014. As The Construction Industries Federation (CIF) remains concerned about the extreme shortage of vocational skills in Namibia across industries, the organisation supports the call for more training by the NTA. The CIF is in agreement with the objectives of the recently announced Vocational Education Training (VET) levy which is to come into effect on 1 April 2014. However, the CIF fears that the particulars, specifically the “payroll formula”, to finance the training, might ultimately reduce the amount of training that companies would undertake and therefore defeat the objective of securing more skills for industry. The CIF is also concerned with the lack of clarity about what can be claimed as well as by when companies can have their training expenses reimbursed. The clear intention of the recently promulgated one percent VET levy payable by companies with a yearly payroll of N$1 million or more, is that it will reduce the shortage of vocational skills and ease the demand of skilled labour across industries. The NTA has made commendable efforts in sensitising stakeholders on what the levy entails through its ongoing country-wide information sessions and having set up a customer care centre and a toll-free line, as well as having assisted eligible employers with registration. However, a lot remains to be done to raise awareness about the desirability and value of training, which is crucial in facilitating the incidence thereof. In order for the new training levy not to be regarded merely as another expense and thus a hindrance to business, companies need to see the prospective return on their training investment, including how training can facilitate the realisation of strategic objectives, including the improvement of performance and its related impact on the bottom line. Ms Bärbel Kirchner, consulting general manager of the CIF emphasised: “There is no doubt that we need the necessary training across industries. This will empower new generations of employees and as result will contribute to increasing individual productivity and the overall performance of organisations. The CIF supports training and skills transfer in the industry. Over the last three years, the CIF has facilitated the delivery of a number of courses, providing an annual calendar so that companies plan and budget for their training accordingly. “However, the training levy alone and penalties for late payment is not convincing enough. To speed up the acceptance by respective employers, it needs to be clear what is “in-it-for-me” as employer. Whilst most would be conscious of the need of social upliftment they also want to see a direct correlation between the investment in training and performance. “Transparency is also important. Employers need to understand which costs can be reimbursed. The costs to deliver training does not end merely with the delivery of content, but involves a spectrum of indirect costs. Somehow there appears to be still a great deal of uncertainty around this”. Prior to the training levy being legislated, and in response to the public invitation by the government to respond to the then proposed new training levy, the CIF had conducted a survey and received feedback from 52 respondents, of which 31 were members of the CIF. The results indicated that companies were concerned about the lack of clarity of what they could claim back and by when such claims could be made should the levy be introduced. The majority of respondents felt that they should be able to claim for cost of the trainer (83.9%); travel and accommodation of the trainee (80.6%); travel and accommodation of the trainer (74.2%); as well as claim for the training needs analysis (51.6%); and loss of productivity for when staff is attending training (48.4%). About when the first claims for reimbursement can be submitted, it is of concern to the industry that payments of levies are to take place as from April 2014 whereas it appears that claims for refunds can only be done much later. Further results of the survey undertaken in 2013, reflected that the majority desired a refund within three months; of which 37.5% need a refund within one month; 21.9% in two months; and 9.4 % in three months, respectively. Only 12.5% regarded a time lag of six months as acceptable and 6.3 % were satisfied to be refunded within a year. Ms Bärbel Kirchner further elaborates: “The purpose of the training levy is that more people will be trained and get the necessary skills. Though a training levy will be only then effective, if indeed refunds would take place without much delay. Companies cannot pay the levy as well as incur the expenditure for training. If they are not refunded swiftly, for many companies a delay in refund could have cash flow implications. “The ten percent interest penalty on overdue payments might ensure compliance, but it is more crucial to positively motivate eligible employers and highlight the value of training and by providing a fair and timely rebate, thus making employers more receptive of the training levy”. Hats Off is a digest of news, some of which have appeared in other media. Items have not been independently verified by the CIF. Consequently, we cannot accept any liability. It is sent free of charge to members of the CIF and other stakeholders in Namibia’s construction industry. 9 COURSES facilitated by the Construction Industries Federation of Namibia CIF COURSE NAME LOCATION DATE OF TRAINING Concrete Essentials CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 18th June 2014 Building with Bricks, Blocks and Mortar CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 19th June 2014 Durability, Deterioration and Repair of Concrete CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 20th June 2014 Concrete Essentials Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 23rd June 2014 Building with Bricks, Blocks and Mortar Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 24th June 2014 Durability, Deterioration and Repair of Concrete Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 25th June 2014 Risk Assessment CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 30th June 2014 Risk Assessment Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 4th July 2014 Introduction to Health & Safety in the Construction Industry (Level 2) Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 7th July 2014 Supervising Health & Safety in the Workplace (Level 3) Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 8-10 July 2014 Confined Space Safe Working Procedures CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 14th July 2014 Confined Space Safe Working Procedures Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 18th July 2014 Surveying Training CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 21st July 2014 Surveying Training Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 23rd July 2014 Working at Heights CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 28th July 2014 Working at Heights Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 1st August 2014 Stress and Time Management CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 4th August 2014 Anger and Conflict Management CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 5th August 2014 Motivating Your Team CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 6th August 2014 Scaffolding Erectors Course CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 11th August 2014 Scaffolding Inspectors Course CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 12th August 2014 Scaffolding Erectors Course Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 14th August 2014 Scaffolding Inspectors Course Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 15th August 2014 Basic Firefighting CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 18th August 2014 Basic Firefighting Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 22nd August 2014 Bookkeeping and Record Keeping CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 1-2 September 2014 Bookkeeping and Record Keeping Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 4-5 September Managing HIV/Aids in the Workplace CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 8th September 2014 10 Hats Off is a digest of news, some of which have appeared in other media. Items have not been independently verified by the CIF. Consequently, we cannot accept any liability. It is sent free of charge to members of the CIF and other stakeholders in Namibia’s construction industry. COURSES facilitated by the » continued Construction Industries Federation of Namibia CIF COURSE NAME from page 10 LOCATION DATE OF TRAINING Managing HIV/Aids in the Workplace Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 12th September 2014 Tendering for Results CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 15-16 September 2014 Tendering for Results Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 18-19 September 2014 Business Communication Tool Kit CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 22-23 September 2014 Business Communication Tool Kit Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 25-26 September 2014 Introduction to Health & Safety in the Construction Industry (Level 2) CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 16th February 2015 Supervising Health & Safety in the Workplace (Level 3) CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 17-19 February 2015 Scaffolding Erectors Course CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 9th March 2015 Scaffolding Inspectors Course CIF House, Corner of Stein and Schwabe Street, Klein Windhoek 10th March 2015 Scaffolding Erectors Course Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 12th March 2015 Scaffolding Inspectors Course Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 13th March 2015 Introduction to Health & Safety in the Construction Industry (Level 2) Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 24th March 2015 Supervising Health & Safety in the Workplace (Level 3) Strauss Holiday Flats - Swakopmund 25-27 March 2015 D110104 Mapelastic 16kg A4 Ad.ai Training is important! 1 27/01/2011 23:21 Mapelastic ® The waterproofer Th Interested in attending a CIF training course or offering relevant training courses? Please get in touch with us. Contact [email protected] or call us on 061-230028. Application The best-selling certified waterproofing system for over 18 years www.whssnamibia.com WINDHOEK HIRE SALES & SERVICES for all your rental needs Compressors Fork Lifts Formwork Scaffolding Mobile Cranes • Developed for protecting major civil engineering projects • Especially suitable for balconies, terraces, swimming-pools, bathrooms, etc. • Easy to apply • Suitable for use over existing ceramic tiles • Protective, long-lasting and versatile TLBs Excavators Loaders Aerial Plattforms Telehandler etc For more information, contact us on +27 11 552 8476 or e-mail us on [email protected] +264-61-330 300 2 NEW! Now Now No ow also al a als lsso o available ava aiilabllee iin n 1 kg= 4 m 2 MIXING BUCKET MIXING BUCKET m Sole & Authorised Distributor illion of: ! 180 m rproofed than ate More essfully w succ Traditional kit 32 kg= kg g 8 m2 1504-2 In compliance w with EN 14891 stan standard www.mapei.co.za www.mapei Tel: +264-61-233693 • [email protected] • 5 Nickel Street • Prosperita • Windhoek Tel: +264-64-462020 • [email protected] • 36 Hidipo Hamutenya St. • Swakopmund Hats Off is a digest of news, some of which have appeared in other media. Items have not been independently verified by the CIF. Consequently, we cannot accept any liability. It is sent free of charge to members of the CIF and other stakeholders in Namibia’s construction industry. ADHESIVES • SEALANTS • CHEMICAL PRODUCTS FOR BU BUILDING 11 Meeting Facilities The Construction Industries Federation of Namibia Meeting facilities are available at the CIF House, corner of Schwabe and Stein Street, Klein Windhoek. Parking facilities are available. The small conference room seats maximum 22 class-room style and 50 theatre style. The board room seats maximum 10 persons. SMALL CONFERENCE ROOM as from January 2013 TIMES MEMBERS NON-MEMBERS PER DAY (8:00 – 17:00) 330.00 (286.95 +15% VAT) 660.00 (573.91 + 15% VAT) MORNINGS (8:00 – 13:00) 220.00 (191.30 +15% VAT) 390.00 (339.13 + 15% VAT) AFTERNOON (14:00 – 17:00) 170.00 (147.82 +15% VAT) 220.00 (191.30 + 15% VAT) AFTER HOURS ( from 17:00) 110.00 (95.65 +15% VAT) (P/H) 170.00 (147.82 + 15% VAT) (P/H) TIMES MEMBERS NON-MEMBERS PER DAY (8:00 – 17:00) 220.00 (191.30 +15% VAT) 440.00 (382.60 + 15% VAT) MORNINGS (8:00 – 13:00) 170.00 (147.82 +15% VAT) 280.00 (243.47 + 15% VAT) AFTERNOON (14:00 – 17:00) 110.00 (95.65 +15% VAT) 170.00 (147.82 + 15% VAT) AFTER HOURS ( from 17:00) 110.00 (95.65 +15% VAT) (P/H) 170.00 (147.82 + 15% VAT) (P/H) BOARD ROOM To book for meeting space, please e-mail us at [email protected] or call us on Tel. 061-417302 www.cifnamibia.com rosoft Word - CIF APPLICATION FORM UPDATED 31012013.doc... http://www.cifnamibia.com/documents/2 P O Box 1479, WINDHOEK, Namibia Tel: (+264-61) 230028, Fax: (+264-61) 224534 Cnr Stein & Schwabe Streets, Klein Windhoek APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP COMPANY NAME: Postal address: Street address: Telephone No: E-mail address: Owner / Director: Shareholders: Nature of Business: Annual Turnover: Fax No: Mobile No: Number of Employees: REGISTRATION NO’S: (Up to date documents showing proof of below requirements, including a copy of the owner/director’s passport or ID must be attached) Income Tax & PAYE: Reference by CIF Member: VAT Registration No: Social Security No: For office use: Pension Fund Name: Application received: Company Reg. No: Application processed: SME Registration No: Membership date: Good Standing Certificate of Social Security I/We hereby apply for membership and I/we agree to abide by the Code of Conduct and the Constitution of the federation, its rules and by-laws, as amended from time to time. I/We certify that the particulars submitted on this application form are correct and accurate. ____________________________ ______________________________________ DATE SIGNATURE ANNUAL FEES FOR CONTRACTING MEMBERS: ANNUAL FEES FOR TRADE & AFFILIATED MEMBERS: Category Ø Turnover N$ Fee N$ (excl. VAT) Category Ø Turnover N$ Fee N$ (excl. VAT) A >200 million 24,000.00 A >50 million 10,000.00 B 100 - <200 mill 18,000.00 B 20 - <50 mill 6,000.00 C 50 - <100 mill 13,000.00 C 10 - <20 mill 3,600.00 1,800.00 D 20 - <50 mill 9,000.00 D 5 - <10 mill E 10 - <20 mill 6,000.00 E <5 million 800.00 F 5 - <10 mill 4,000.00 G 2 - <5 mill 2,500.00 ANNUAL FEE FOR SME CONTRACTORS: N$800.00 (excl. VAT) H <2 million 1,500.00 (Copy of SME registration certificate from MTI must be submitted)
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