In the heart of Ghana’s Wa Metropolis, a shadow looms over government construction projects, threatening their integrity and longevity. A recent study, led by Rauf Siita of the Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development, has cast a spotlight on the unethical practices plaguing the construction sector, with significant implications for the energy sector and other industries reliant on robust infrastructure.
The study, published in the ‘Journal of Construction Project Management and Innovation’ (translated as ‘Journal of Construction Project Management and Innovation’), reveals a troubling landscape where competition, bribery, and profit maximization drive unethical behavior. “Contractors are often caught in a web of illegal contract awards and a lack of transparency,” Siita explains, “all fueled by an excessive love of money and job insecurity.”
The consequences are stark. Poor craftsmanship, short project lifespans, and safety concerns are just the tip of the iceberg. Misallocation of resources, inflated project costs, and even project abandonment are rampant, with fatalities adding a grim dimension to the issue. “These practices are not just unethical; they’re commercially detrimental,” Siita asserts, highlighting the broader economic impacts.
The energy sector, in particular, is vulnerable. Reliable infrastructure is critical for energy projects, and unethical construction practices can lead to costly delays, safety hazards, and environmental risks. The study’s findings underscore the need for a comprehensive code of ethics, robust regulatory oversight, and transparent bidding processes.
Siita’s research calls for the Association of Contractors to step up, enforcing ethical standards and supporting ongoing awareness initiatives. “It’s about creating a culture of integrity,” Siita says, “where ethical conduct is not just encouraged but expected.”
The study’s focus on government projects in the Wa Metropolis offers a microcosm of a global issue, providing a roadmap for enhancing ethical conduct in the construction sector. As the industry grapples with these challenges, Siita’s work serves as a catalyst for change, shaping future developments and ensuring that infrastructure projects are built on a foundation of integrity and transparency.
In an industry where every bolt and beam matters, ethical conduct is not just a moral imperative but a commercial one. Siita’s research is a wake-up call, a reminder that the path to progress is paved with integrity.