Contracts for road maintenance works - agreements for works by direct labor : contracting out of road maintenance activities

The note intends to provide guidance for preparing, and managing contracts for road maintenance works, as a way to enhance the management of road networks. The policy framework for contracting out road maintenance activities, has been established in a number of African countries, and is currently being implemented. However, professionals involved in its implementation, are seeking guidance for preparing bidding documents, contracts, and monitoring/supervision reports. Contracting out raises some practical problems: maintenance works are often of medium, or small size; they are scattered over the country; financial, and managerial resources for preparation, and supervision are scarce; and, contractors, either large or small, are not familiar with these works, which have been in the past, reserved to force account teams. Nevertheless, standard documents can enhance the efficiency of highway authorities. The note facilitates the implementation of road maintenance by contractor, or by direct labor, under a clear, and accurate contractual set-up, where benefits will result from a better preparation of the works, and, an easier, more efficient control of the works.