The National Construction Industry Council of Malawi (NCIC) says it will not tolerate corruption in the construction sector as experience has shown the vice deprives the citizenry of quality and durable public infrastructure.
NCIC acting chief executive officer Engineer Gerald Khonje said this in an interview yesterday after launching three policy documents, namely NCIC Fraud and Corruption Policy, Disability Policy, and a Service Charter.
Khonje said: “Effects of corruption are rampant and the country has witnessed the recent worst plunder of hard-earned public resources through Cashgate.
“The Fraud and Corruption policy will enhance transparency and accountability, including material disclosure and projects implemented within the country.
“Duty-bearers will be held accountable on their actions because the citizenry will be empowered through sensitisation on expected outcomes”.
Khonje said the Service Charter stipulates what clients should expect in terms of quality service delivery and desired standards whereas the Disability Policy ensures an inclusive approach in ensuring people with disabilities actively participate in the construction sector’s business. The Fraud and Corruption Policy entails prevention and rooting out corruption in the sector.
He explained that the documents will facilitate effectiveness of service delivery which includes facilitating timely registration of firms to enhance professional performance of the construction industry.
Deputy Minister of Transport and Public Works Nancy Chaola Mdooko, in an interview, agreed that the construction industry has over the years been riddled with corruption “which has denied citizens right to expected development”.
She said the Tonse Alliance administration has taken a strong position against corruption; and she challenged the construction sector to lead by example in fighting corruption, to ensure value for money.
In recent years, some construction companies have had their licences revoked by the council for being involved in fraud and corruption of public resources in their line of business while others remain suspended.
The NCIC Act of 1996 entrusted the council with the mandate of regulating, promoting and developing the construction industry in the country.
