ASA recently had the honour of addressing the Portfolio Committee on Human Settlements in Parliament. This important engagement allowed ASA to share insights into its mandate, achievements, and the critical role it plays in advancing innovative building technologies (IBTs) to support the delivery of sustainable human settlements in South Africa.
As a public entity of the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), ASA plays a vital role in evaluating and certifying non-standardised and innovative building products and systems, ensuring they are fit-for-purpose, safe, and contribute meaningfully to the country’s infrastructure needs.

ASA’s presentation to the Portfolio Committee focused on:

  • ASA Mandate and Impact: Outlining ASA’s contribution to government priorities by certifying innovative construction products that accelerate housing delivery and infrastructure development.

  • Support for Human Settlements: Demonstrating how ASA-certified products and technologies are helping to build quality, affordable, and sustainable housing solutions for South African communities.

  • Challenges and Opportunities: Discussing regulatory complexities, resource constraints, and the need for closer collaboration between innovation, policy, and procurement structures.

  • Future Outlook: Highlighting plans to enhance industry partnerships, increase awareness of ASA’s certification services, and further support the government’s drive toward resilient and integrated human settlement

The Portfolio Committee commended ASA for its continued work in the built environment and acknowledged the importance of innovation in addressing South Africa’s housing challenges. The Committee encouraged ASA to intensify its outreach to the industry and communities and to continue supporting the Department of Human Settlements in achieving its vision.

ASA remains committed to playing a strategic role in supporting government and private sector stakeholders with reliable certification and technical expertise. By promoting innovative building solutions, ASA continues to contribute to safe, affordable, and sustainable infrastructure development across South Africa.