Review of the local governance building construction quality control framework in Zambia : case of Lusaka city.
Date
2023
Authors
Stackson, Jere Nahum
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The University of Zambia
Abstract
Building Construction in Zambia has been booming at a faster rate than ever before. Local
authorities have had the challenge of pacing up in quality control with these fast developments.
The integrity of built infrastructure in a city guarantees safety of occupants, minimises
maintenance costs to buildings, and safeguards the economic investments secured in the
infrastructure. This results in important savings which can be available for economic growth.
The quality of built infrastructure in Zambia has been clearly put to the test by adverse
conditions as heavy storms and floods, earth vibrations and movements, and fires. These
incidental conditions are all becoming too common in Zambia, especially with the effects of
climate change. The news media reports houses and buildings collapsing, roofs being blown
off, and public infrastructure damage especially during the rainy months of October to March.
Noteworthy also is the many reported fires to buildings, and the limited buildings resilience to
fires, compromising the structural integrity of the infrastructure. More diverse is the residential
building construction, which accommodates all classes of social and economic standing. It is
therefore important to identify the factors affecting the quality of building infrastructure in
Zambia. This research focussed on identifying these factors to the built environment with
central focus on one of the fastest developing cities in Zambia, Lusaka. Key input was sought
from the developers in Low, Medium, and High-cost development areas of Lusaka. The
Institutional mechanisms of the Local authority on development control were also reviewed to
identify gaps in the building quality control. It was evident from the research that most
developers lacked the technical input into the design and construction methodology of their
developments. This was further exacerbated by the inadequate stage inspections to buildings
by the Local authority, prolonged timelines to obtain approvals, and gaps in the design scrutiny
framework. The identified factors and gaps affecting building construction quality forms a clear
basis for regulatory review.
Key Phrases: Building Construction, Developers, Institutional framework
Description
Thesis
Keywords
Building infrastructure--Quality control. , Building construction.