The Challenge of Fronting: A Deep Dive into Ghanaian Contracting Practices
Introduction
In recent discussions at the Second Annual General Meeting and Conference of the Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE) Branch 6, concerns have been raised about a troubling trend in the Ghanaian construction industry: local contractors fronting for foreign companies, particularly those from China. Mr. Ludwig Annang Hesse, the National President of GhIE, has taken a firm stance on this practice, highlighting its implications for local content, job creation, and the professional development of Ghanaian engineers.
The Fronting Issue
Fronting occurs when contracts awarded to Ghanaian firms are, in reality, executed by foreign companies. Mr. Hesse pointed out that despite the official contracts showcasing local names, the workforce on-site often consists predominantly of foreign nationals. This discrepancy creates a façade of local participation while undermining the very purpose of promoting Ghanaian interests in public projects.
According to Hesse, “You may see a Ghanaian name on the contract, but when you go to the site, the people working are Chinese.” This alarming observation underscores a systemic issue that has repercussions not just for local economies but also for the professional integrity of the engineering sector.
Impact on Local Professionals
One of the most significant consequences of this fronting trend is the hindrance it poses to the professional growth of Ghanaian engineers. While some local engineers might be involved in these projects, they often find themselves working under foreign supervision. This situation stifles their ability to gain experiential knowledge and hone their skills in a meaningful way.
Hesse emphasized that many of the companies winning significant contracts in Ghana lack the requisite qualified engineering staff, further sidelining local talent. This gap suggests a pressing need for stricter regulatory enforcement to ensure that contractors possess qualified engineers in their teams before being awarded critical projects.
Voices of Concern
Togbe Adzie Lakle Howusu XII, Divisional Chief of Ho-Dome and Awafiaga of Asogli State, echoed Hesse’s concerns during the conference. He lamented that the current contract-awarding processes often overlook qualified local engineers, opting instead for foreign firms that recruit Ghanaians as laborers rather than as professionals.
Howusu pointed out the irony: “Some foreign personnel hired for these projects were not even trained engineers but ended up learning on the job from Ghanaians.” This highlights not only a failure in the hiring process but also a potential for skills transfer that remains largely unutilized when local engineers aren’t placed in supervisory or managerial roles.
The Job Market for Ghanaian Engineers
Further complicating the landscape is the challenge faced by Ghanaians who have pursued education in engineering abroad. Many who are sponsored to study overseas often return to find a job market that is not receptive or supportive of their skills. This creates a dilemma for aspiring engineers, leading to frustration and a sense of waste regarding their education and training.
A Call for Prioritization
Both Hesse and Howusu have called for a paradigm shift in how government contracts are awarded. They emphasize that Ghanaian engineers are more than capable of handling all construction works, both locally and abroad. Howusu urged the government to prioritize local firms in the awarding of contracts, stressing that this could help elevate the entire engineering sector in the country.
Additionally, he encouraged engineers to strive for excellence, not just for personal advancement but to help reshape the narrative surrounding Ghanaian engineering. By promoting local talent and ensuring genuine participation in public projects, the industry can cultivate skills and create sustainable job opportunities.
Conclusion
The ongoing conversation about fronting and its implications for the engineering sector in Ghana is crucial. It speaks to larger issues of national development, local empowerment, and the potential for systemic change. As stakeholders in the industry advocate for more equitable practices, the hope is that meaningful reforms will emerge, allowing Ghanaian engineers to thrive and contribute fully to their communities.
