The Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) says it is excited about the bold infrastructure and housing initiatives announced by President Ramaphosa during his 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA).
The body also wants to highlight the vital role Quantity Surveyors will play in making these projects successful. “Our QSs have the skills and knowledge to manage and deliver these initiatives effectively, thanks to their experience in cost management, value optimisation, risk mitigation, sustainability and compliance,” says Nolubabalo Tsolo, Executive Director of ASAQS.
In addition, Quantity Surveyors provide an inherent auditing function that ensures project expenses, output quality and material usage remain within accepted specifications.
Major infrastructure investments
The President said the country had to lift its economic growth above three percent. To achieve this, the government was undertaking massive investments in new infrastructure, as well as maintaining existing assets.
It is seeking R100 billion in infrastructure investment through local and private entities, and will spend more than R940 billion in infrastructure over the next three years.
R375 billion of this will go towards state owned enterprises, and will be used to upgrade roads and bridges, build dams and waterways, and modernise ports and airports.
President Ramaphosa also said that affordable housing development would expand to city centres, offering greater access to work and business opportunities.
“These initiatives, which include important investments in public infrastructure, affordable housing and urban renewal, are set to significantly boost socio-economic development and open many new opportunities in the construction and property sectors,” says Tsolo.
Undeniable contributions
Tsolo says Quantity Surveyors play a crucial role in the construction industry through their professional contributions.
They excel in cost management, keeping project expenses on track and ensuring large-scale infrastructure and housing developments are completed within budget.
By providing precise cost estimates and sound financial advice, Quantity Surveyors maximise the value derived from public funds, fostering responsible spending.
Their knowledge of risk management enables them to recognise possible financial threats and formulate plans to reduce them, maintaining project stability, even in the face of difficulties.
Additionally, Quantity Surveyors advocate for sustainable construction practices by recommending cost-effective and environmentally friendly materials and methods, aligning with governmental goals for urban renewal and affordable housing.
They also ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations, minimising the risk of delays and costly mistakes by ensuring that construction meets necessary standards.
Protecting big investments
With Quantity Surveyors’ many skills, they provide a high level of protection against project mismanagement, fraud and corruption. They offer value engineering to maximise the value-for-money proposition of projects. They can also act as mediators or advisors to resolve disputes.
This underscores the importance of competent Quantity Surveyors in managing and optimising these significant investments effectively.
As such, ASAQS is committed to supporting the government’s vision for a prosperous and sustainable South Africa.
“We believe that the involvement of skilled Quantity Surveyors will be instrumental in achieving the goals set out in the SONA 2025, and we look forward to collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of these transformative projects,” says Tsolo.