Poor work culture a setback to construction sector

A heavy machinery at a worksite

As the level of infrastructural development in the country continues to outpace available labour, poor work culture is proving to be another hurdle contributing to stagnation and delays in both private and public sector projects.
This is according to President Dr. Irfaan Ali, who highlighted that across the construction sector, challenges are being faced regarding the availability of truck drivers, labourers, and other construction workers.
“Many contractors, builders, the private sector (are) complaining about not having enough drivers, labourers, construction workers. It’s a reality in this phase of national transformation and development. A reality for government projects also for private sector projects,” the Head of State said.
Compounding the issue is wanton absenteeism by existing workers, the President pointed out. He noted that a recent assessment of government projects across the country revealed that the average labour turnout rate in December was below 35 percent at various worksites. This culture must be avoided, the President posited.
“We can’t build a country that is resilient and sustainable with that work culture and that work ethic when you have 35 percent labour turnout on major projects like these and in the private sector.”
The President said that efforts must be made to address these challenges to avoid a work culture that becomes detrimental at both the national and individual levels. He added that the government is working to adopt a flexible labour model that will address various labour issues.