THE government has promised to continue providing construction tenders to local contractors to enhance their capacity in managing and implementing big construction projects.
Deputy Minister for Works, Transport and Communication Elias Kwandikwa made the promise here yesterday while opening the contractors Annual Consultative Meeting.

The Contractors Registration Board (CRB) organised two-day meeting is being attended by over 1,000 contractors and other construction stakeholders from both local and international companies.
Mr Kwandikwa said there are many projects that could be executed by local contractors, citing water, energy and education as sectors where the local contractors can win tenders.
However, the Deputy Minister advised local contractors to form joint ventures to enhance their ability to record good performance in the implementation of various big projects.
“You must strive to record good performance, the government is ready to give you jobs but you must be ready to demonstrate high standards in your performance,” he said.
He added, “Make sure that you use this opportunity to the maximum and deliver to the required standards and complete projects within agreed time.”
Mr Kwandikwa also warned contractors in the country against embracing corrupt practices in tendering, saying the evil leads to poor projects performance.
Speaking during the meeting, CRB Chairperson Consolata Ngimbwa commended the government for paying the contractors’ debts and asked for more construction projects.
She asked her fellow engineers to use the meeting to find solutions to various challenges facing the construction sector.
CRB Registrar Rhoben Nkori said his office was satisfied with the way the government addresses contractors challenges including paying their dues as required.