Mr. Sydney Hamooya, the SIOMA Council Secretary, has called on contractors and suppliers in the district to prioritize quality service delivery when engaged by the Local Authority. Speaking during an engagement meeting held at the Civic Centre, Mr. Hamooya expressed concern over delays in project completion that have deprived the community of essential services.
“The Local Authority has observed that many contractors are not completing projects in a timely manner,” stated Mr. Hamooya. “It is imperative that once projects are awarded, they are delivered on time and meet the specifications outlined in the Bill of Quantities (B.O.Q). These projects are not for us; they are for the people of Sioma, particularly for our mothers and children.”
During the meeting, Eng. Lameck Daka, the Sioma Town Council Director of Engineering Services, reassured contractors that the Local Authority is actively reviewing fund allocations to eliminate any excuses for subpar quality. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the B.O.Q guidelines.
Eng. Daka further noted that timely payments to contractors would be prioritized, reinforcing the Local Authority’s commitment to improving the local economy and enhancing livelihoods, in alignment with President Hakainde Hichilema’s developmental agenda.
Assistant Procurement Officer Mr. Bresten Twambo highlighted the introduction of the e-GP system, which aims to promote transparency and reduce corruption in public procurement processes. “This electronic method will encourage more suppliers and contractors to engage with the Local Authority, as it ensures an open and transparent procurement process,” he stated.
The e-GP system requires all suppliers of goods, works, and services to utilize this electronic platform for their transactions with public institutions.
