The Central Procurement Board of Namibia (CPBN) has recorded its first Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) contribution from a company awarded a government contract. The initiative requires companies that win certain government tenders to give back to communities where their projects are being carried out. West Trading JV Unik Construction Engineering Namibia recently donated blankets, school... The post Bethanie benefits from procurement board’s first CSR project appeared first on New Era .
The Central Procurement Board of Namibia (CPBN) has recorded its first Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) contribution from a company awarded a government contract.
The initiative requires companies that win certain government tenders to give back to communities where their projects are being carried out.
West Trading JV Unik Construction Engineering Namibia recently donated blankets, school uniforms and sanitary pads worth N$64 886 to vulnerable residents of Bethanie and learners at Schmelenville Combined School.
The donation was made as part of the company’s contract to upgrade the Sandverhaar-Buchholzbrunn Railway Line Phase 2, which includes constructing and repairing bridges. CPBN was awarded the project on behalf of the Ministry of Works and Transport.
The contract is worth N$64.8 million, with the company required to spend at least 0.1% of the contract value on CSR activities.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, CPBN Board Director Simon Shivute said government projects should also benefit communities.
“Success is best when it is shared. Procurement is not only about acquiring goods, works and services; it is also about creating opportunities, strengthening communities and delivering lasting social value,” Shivute said.
He said the CSR requirement allows companies and government to work together to support communities while carrying out development projects.
The railway project has also created jobs for residents, with 20 people from Bethanie employed during construction.
Bethanie Village Council representative councillor Willem Boois welcomed the donation and employment opportunities created by the project. He said residents’ involvement showed that government projects can have a direct impact on communities.
Engineer Jin Ye handed over the donation on behalf of West Trading JV Unik Construction Engineering Namibia.
CPBN said the CSR requirement will continue to be included in future bidding processes where applicable, to ensure communities benefit from projects taking place in their areas.
The post Bethanie benefits from procurement board’s first CSR project appeared first on New Era.
