The Minister of Public Works, Housing and Water Resources, Fernando Rafael, met on January 30, 2025, in Maputo with the Mozambican Federation of Contractors (FME) to discuss ways of improving the participation of national companies in the construction sector.

The main objectives of the meeting were to promote a more collaborative environment between the federation and the government, identify challenges faced by both and propose solutions to strengthen the country's construction industry.

During the meeting, the Minister highlighted the importance of FME as a strategic partner in the search for higher quality in national infrastructure, advocating working together to create better conditions for Mozambican contractors. He also stressed the need to revise the normative instruments that regulate the sector, with the aim of guaranteeing a fairer and more competitive environment.

The Minister, Fernando Rafael, reiterated the importance of holding regular meetings between the FME and the MOPHRH, with well-defined agendas and structured short-, medium- and long-term actions.

For his part, Bento Machaila, President of FME, welcomed the government's openness to dialogue, but warned of urgent challenges that need concrete solutions. Among the main points raised were: the need for timely payments by the state to contractors; the regulation of the compulsory subcontracting of national companies in major works; and a review of the eligibility criteria in tenders funded by international agencies, guaranteeing fair conditions for the participation of Mozambican companies.

"We are ready to work together with the government, but it is essential that the reforms move forward so that national contractors can play an active role in the country's development," said the FME president.

With an innovative and pragmatic approach, Fernando Rafael has demonstrated a firm commitment to structural changes in the construction sector. This new dynamic reinforces the government's commitment to transparency, fairness and quality in public works, ensuring that national companies play a central role in transforming the country.