This high-level gathering marked a pivotal event in FEM's inaugural national engagement series designed to foster collaboration, share critical insights and promote safety, growth and sustainability in the South African construction sector, says the company.

Moderated by the respected broadcaster Sakina Kamwendo, the morning brought together public and private sector leaders, business stakeholders and organised labour representatives to explore the evolving construction landscape under the theme: "Building Forward Together," adds the company.

Powerful Opening and Strategic Vision

FEM Chief Executive Officer Nazeer Hoosen officially welcomed guests and set the tone for the event by reflecting on both personal experiences and national potential, drawing a comparison between the efficiency of countries like Switzerland and the untapped possibilities of South Africa. He emphasised the importance of industry-wide collaboration to transform the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) sector and contribute meaningfully to South Africa's broader economic development, says the company.

"South Africa is the most beautiful country in the world, and it's up to us to take care of it, protect it, and restore it to what it should be. I remain positive about our future and believe that together, we can make a difference," says Hoosen, encouraging delegates to actively engage in shaping the future of construction and workplace safety through meaningful dialogue and shared commitment.

Francois Pienaar, Founder of the Make A Difference Leadership Foundation (MAD), delivered a compelling address on how nurturing young leaders is critical to the long-term sustainability of industry and national development. Reflecting on his life-changing relationship with Nelson Mandela and the founding of MAD, Pienaar paid tribute to the transformative power of education and leadership, adds the company.

"Mr. Mandela said that education is the most powerful weapon with which to change the world. The message to these young leaders is to do what Madiba did; to shake the tree, to be a leader in society, to take a step forward and turn our country into a better place," says Pienaar. Through heartfelt stories of impact, he reminded attendees that building a resilient future begins with investing in youth who are ready to lead with purpose and courage, which is what the FEM Education Foundation (FEMEF) enables them to do, says the company.

Driving Growth Through Collaboration

Deputy President of COSATU, Duncan Luvuno, underscored the critical role of business-labour partnerships in driving sustainable economic growth and improving conditions for workers across the country. Emphasising the need for inclusive dialogue, he commends FEM for creating a platform where voices from all sectors can engage meaningfully on the future of the industry, says the company.

"Collaboration between organised labour, industry stakeholders and government is essential if we want to unlock inclusive growth, create jobs, and address the real challenges facing workers on the ground," says Luvuno. He stresses that such engagements not only give voice to the working class but also pave the way for a more equitable and responsive economic landscape.

The event further explored how effective Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) management is not merely a matter of compliance but a strategic investment that directly impacts productivity, workforce wellbeing and long-term sustainability. Chief Inspector of Occupational Health and Safety at the Department of Employment and Labour, Milly Ruiters, emphasised the importance of shifting from reactive to proactive safety approaches in the workplace.

"Occupational health and safety play a vital role in any organisation — it's not just a legal requirement, it's a key component of decent work and a smart investment," says Ruiters. She commended initiatives that focus on smaller contractors and affirmed the department's commitment to partnerships that elevate safety standards across the construction sector and beyond, adds the company.

Economic Outlook and Keynote Insights

Craig Lemboe, Deputy Director at the Bureau for Economic Research, presents a detailed analysis of South Africa’s economic outlook, highlighting both historical trends and forward-looking opportunities for the construction sector. He notes that while past growth periods showcased the sector's potential, current challenges demand a more nuanced understanding of underlying constraints.

"The question we grapple with is: are we a 1% economy or a 3.3% economy? The reality is, even without load-shedding in 2024, we only managed 0.5% growth, showing that deeper structural issues must be addressed," says Lemboe. However, he points to policy shifts, increased infrastructure spending and urbanisation as key drivers that could revitalise the sector and stimulate broader economic momentum, says the company.

Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Hon. Ms Maropene Ramokgopa, delivered a powerful keynote address underscoring the strategic importance of the construction sector in South Africa's development agenda.

She emphasises that infrastructure is not only an economic driver but also a foundation for inclusive growth and social transformation. "We must recognise that infrastructure and construction are at the core of our national priorities. You are not just important to what we are trying to build; you are central to it," says Ramokgopa. She further stresses the need for stronger public-private collaboration to align skills development, accelerate delivery and restore confidence in South Africa's capacity to drive meaningful progress.

Future Vision for the Sector

According to the company, a powerful panel discussion titled "The Future Vision of the Construction Sector in South Africa" features key thought leaders:

  • Bongani Dladla, CEO of the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB)
  • Vuyo Qubu, Group SHEQ Director at Stefanutti Stocks
  • Caren Sutherns, Vice President of the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI)
  • Musa Shangase, Director at Corobrik
  • Sam Ngcongo, President of Master Builders South Africa (MBSA), and
  • Lea Smith, Past President of Master Builders Association (MBA) North. 

The panel addresses innovation, compliance, infrastructure investment and enterprise development. Caren Sutherns highlighted the importance of market access for SMMEs, while Sam Ngcongo called for accelerated transformation in procurement practices.

The Construction Industry Business Breakfast represents just the beginning of a national dialogue to reimagine the construction sector. FEM plans to roll out similar events across key regions to expand impact and deepen industry partnerships, concludes the company.

For more information, visit www.fem.co.za. You can also follow The Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor