The Ministry of Public Works is encountering significant difficulties in executing vital infrastructure and maintenance projects, primarily due to a shortage of seasoned personnel. Permanent Secretary Paula Baleilevuka brought these challenges to light during a session with the Standing Committee on Social Affairs.
In response to inquiries about the Public Works Department’s operations following the disbandment of the Construction Implementation Unit, Baleilevuka underscored the issue of experienced labor, stating, “Qualification is not as important as the experience in terms of building maintenance, road maintenance. We want people who can actually do the work.”
The ministry has sought to re-engage retired personnel, yet complications arise as many are over the age of 60, requiring Prime Ministerial approval for their re-engagement. Baleilevuka noted, “These are some of the challenges that the Ministry is facing.”
In a hopeful development, the Cabinet has approved the recruitment of 700 new positions within the reconstituted Public Works Department (PWD), which is anticipated to stabilize operations and improve the infrastructure delivery process. Despite these positive strides, Baleilevuka cautioned that the transition remains fraught with obstacles.
This situation echoes previous updates on the PWD, which has also recently received new heavy machinery, including three trucks, two excavators, and two bulldozers, enhancing its operational capabilities. These tools are aimed at improving road standards and maintaining rural infrastructures, which are crucial for national economic activity.
Overall, while the Ministry faces considerable challenges, the ongoing recruitment and resource enhancement offer a glimmer of hope for improving the country’s infrastructure in the near future.
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