The impact of organised crime on South Africa’s construction industry

In recent years, South Africa’s construction industry has faced a growing crisis from organised crime groups. The so-called "construction mafia" have created an environment of fear and uncertainty, using extortion, violence and intimidation to force building companies and workers into submission. It’s a problem that has led to financial losses and stalled infrastructure development as well as endangering the lives of those who work on construction sites across the country, writes John Ridgeway.

The "construction mafia" in South Africa began to gain attention around 2014. Organised crime groups, largely gang-affiliated, began to infiltrate the construction industry, particularly in government-funded infrastructure projects. These gangs use tactics commonly associated with traditional mafia activities, including demands for "protection fees" or a share of project budgets, especially on public works and housing projects. If construction companies do not comply, these groups often resort to violent methods, which can include assault, threats to workers and management, or property damage.

In many cases, gangs demand up to 30% of a project's value as a fee. While they justify these demands under the guise of community involvement or job creation for locals, their true aim is control over lucrative contracts and revenue streams. Often, these gangs insist that contractors employ their affiliates or members from local communities, thereby ensuring a portion of wages and influence within the project. The most notorious cases have been reported in regions such as Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape, where these gangs operate with near impunity, undermining efforts to complete vital projects​

The presence of the construction mafia has a twofold effect on the industry. First, workers, engineers, and managers on-site are exposed to frequent intimidation and life-threatening situations, which detracts from productivity and morale. Companies operating in regions heavily affected by these gangs must make difficult choices - either comply with the gangs’ demands or face the risk of shutting down projects. In Cape Town, contractors on several housing developments abandoned projects entirely due to sustained harassment and violence from local gangs, some of which have close ties with influential criminal networks​. Click link to read more:

#southafrica

Exploring the global market for glass fibre reinforced concrete

The global glass fibre reinforced concrete (GFRC) market is booming, driven by rising demand from both commercial and residential sectors and bolstered by trends toward sustainable construction. GFRC, a composite material composed of fine sand, cement, water and alkali-resistant glass fibres, is highly valued for its lightweight, durable and sustainable characteristics and is a proven winner for the construction industry, writes John Ridgeway.

In 2023, the GFRC market was valued at approximately $3.51 billion, with projections estimating it will grow to $3.97 billion by 2024, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.2%. With estimates pointing to the market reaching $6.65 billion by 2028, GFRC is quickly becoming the must have material in the global construction industry.

The surge in demand for GFRC is supported by a range of factors, primarily urbanisation, the demand for more renovation projects and an increasing focus on sustainable building solutions. GFRC is particularly beneficial in green building initiatives because of its composition. The material is not only lightweight and durable, but it also requires fewer resources for transportation and handling. These characteristics make it a perfect fit for green buildings, which aim to reduce the environmental footprint of construction projects. Given that GFRC also offers improved energy efficiency, it has become increasingly popular in eco-friendly buildings and developments globally. Click link to see more:

#concrete

Empowering women in construction to overcome microaggression

Despite massive progress in diversity and inclusion, a new study in Australia shows that it is still tough for women looking to make a career in construction. The findings reveal that many still experience persistent microaggressions and encounter significant hurdles in advancing their careers – situations that are so difficult - that some are even considering leaving the industry altogether, writes John Ridgeway.

The study, by the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), launched in collaboration with the DEI consultancy TDC Global, highlights the daily challenges that women encounter in the field – and it does not make for good reading. Even worse, there is strong evidence to suggest that their findings highlight a global problem for the construction industry

One of the study's most troubling findings is that 88% of respondents reported experiencing microaggressions, with women in managerial or administrative roles encountering even higher rates. Beyond the emotional toll, these subtle but harmful behaviours can create a pervasive sense of exclusion, undermine confidence and over time, contribute to mental health issues. For many women, fear of retaliation and a lack of institutional support prevent them from reporting these incidents, claims the report, leaving them feeling isolated and undervalued.

NAWIC, founded in Australia in 1995, has become a powerful advocate for women in construction, offering support, resources, and networks that help women thrive in this field. NAWIC is part of a global network that includes the United States, New Zealand, and Canada, and serves as a forum for women to share ideas, expand their skills and create networks that foster personal and professional growth. NAWIC’s vision is to empower women in construction, build confidence and strengthen the industry as a whole through inclusivity and equity. Click link to see more:

#diversity