MINISTER MACPHERSON EXPLORING SMART FUTURE FOR SOUTH AFRICA’S CONSTRUCTION SECTOR

Article by Maanea Maselesele and Pictures by Mahlogonolo Makwela

14 April 2025

In a transformative step towards modernising the construction industry, Minister Dean Macpherson, visited the Huawei Innovation Centre and Intelligent Warehouse in Johannesburg on Friday,11 April 2025.

The Minister of was accompanied the Director General, Mr. Sifiso Mdakane, Deputy Director-General: Governance Risk and Compliance, Mr Lwazi Mahlangu, and Chief Director of External Relations and Communications, from Infrastructure South Africa, Ms. Nombulelo Nyathela.

The delegation's visit aimed to explore innovative partnerships that incorporate smart technology, leveraging advanced technologies to enhance public asset management, and build a smarter future for infrastructure development in South Africa.

The discussions centred around digital solutions that can optimise public asset management, and improve overall project delivery. Minister Macpherson says that a collaboration with technology leaders will presents a unique opportunity to not only address technical challenges but also position our industry at the forefront of the global construction landscape.

The Minister further explained that this engagement was about more than just technology, but also about creating modern skilled jobs, and foster local innovation to drive economic growth.

The DG of the department, Sifiso Mdakane, spoke largely on the critical role of technology in promoting energy efficiency and sustainable practices within the Department’s green building initiatives. He says that it is imperative to embrace energy saving technologies that will make our buildings more efficient and resilient.