DPWI TECHNICAL TEAM IN THE UAE TO STRENGTHEN SA’s INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

By Maanea Maselesele

16 May 2025

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure's (DPWI) technical team that is currently in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues in its efforts to strengthen South Africa’s infrastructure development by learning from globally recognised best practices in construction and facilities management.

The team conducted a site visit to the Abrahamic Family House, an internationally acclaimed multi-faith complex that exemplifies excellence in Total Facilities Management (TFM). The visit provided practical insights into world-class maintenance systems, operational efficiency and sustainability practices that can inform DPWI’s approach to managing public infrastructure assets in South Africa.

In addition, the delegation met with Acting Ambassador of South Africa to the UAE Johan Oberholzer, to discuss the broader diplomatic and developmental context of the visit. These discussions reinforced the alignment between international cooperation and national development priorities, particularly in the realm of public infrastructure.

In his remarks Head of the Property Management Trading Entity (PMTE) Siza Sibande, emphasised the importance of cross-sector collaboration in achieving South Africa’s infrastructure goals. “Collaboration between the public and private sectors is critical for South Africa to effectively meet its infrastructure needs. The insights we are gaining during this technical visit will significantly inform how we manage and maintain public assets going forward. Our focus remains on I mplementing sustainable and cost- effective solutions that deliver long-term value for the South African taxpayer,” said Sibande.

This ongoing technical visit continues to yield critical insights that will inform the Department’s future infrastructure strategies.