EXPERTS at the Works ministry need to formulate a supportive strategy for empowering local contractors to smoothly implement projects assigned to them.

Deputy Prime Minister Dr Doto Biteko issued this instruction at the contractors and service providers’ symposium in Dar es Salaam over the weekend, demanding that the Works ministry liaise with the Treasury on the issue for best outcomes.

Underlining the pivotal role of local contractors in bolstering the country’s economy, he said it was vital to empower then, pointing at the need to widen the dialogue with banks to devise comprehensive empowerment strategies for contractors.

“Central to this initiative is fostering robust partnerships with financial institutions, facilitating tailored plans to bolster the financial standing of contractors as many local companies face capital challenges in implementing projects,” he said.

In creating a conducive environment for local contractors to thrive, coordinated efforts are needed across critical sectors such as Energy, Water and Transport to align their policies and initiatives in support of local contractors, he specified.

He urged contractors to diligently manage project funds, ensuring their responsible use for construction activities and reinvestment of profits into growth of their companies.

Contractors need to uphold patriotism in executing construction projects by adhering to quality standards, thus not impairing the pace of economic growth, he said.

By encouraging adherence to quality standards and fostering a spirit of patriotism in construction practices, the government seeks to pave the way for sustainable economic growth and enhanced infrastructural development across the country, he emphasised.

The symposium marks a pivotal moment in empowering the local construction industry, seeking to ensure that it meets international standards and “serves as a cornerstone of economic advancement and national pride,” the DPM intoned.

Organised by the Tanzania United Contractors and Allied Services Association (TUCASA), the two-day forum brought together contractors, suppliers, manufacturers, banking and insurance institutions and other stakeholders to discuss challenges facing the sector, to recommend appropriate measures to address the challenges.

Samuel Marwa, the TUCASA chairman, expressed gratitude to the government for recognizing the potential of local contractors and investing efforts to support collective growth.                         

Empowering local contractors can lead to significant benefits as it stimulates job creation, enhances skills development, and retains capital within the country, thereby bolstering economic resilience, he stated.

The country has enough competent contractors and engineers to implement mega projects at the required quality levels so the government needs to trust them and provide more opportunities to participate in major construction projects, he added.