The Zambia Institute of Architects (ZIA) has expressed deep sadness following the death of a worker in a tragic building collapse that occurred during the illegal extension of a private clinic in Luanshya.
ZIA President Musunka Silungwe said preliminary investigations conducted jointly by ZIA and the Luanshya Municipal Council revealed that the collapse was a result of an illegally constructed ring beam that failed, ultimately crushing a worker underneath.
In a statement issued to Lusaka Star, Mr. Silungwe described the loss of life as a preventable tragedy caused by unlawful practices.
“The blatant disregard for legal building procedures, professional oversight, and fundamental construction safety standards have resulted in a needless death,” Mr. Silungwe said.
The Institute said the clinic commenced the extension project without submitting legally required architectural and structural drawings for approval, and proceeded without planning permission from the council’s planning authority.
Mr Silungwe further expressed disappointment at the clinic’s engagement of an unqualified and unregistered contractor and workforce, stating that the poor workmanship led directly to dangerous structural deficiencies.
“This kind of wilful negligence is not just unprofessional, it’s criminal. We are calling on the authorities to arrest and prosecute the clinic directors, the illegal contractor, and anyone else involved,” he said.
He emphasized that the law requires the use of qualified and registered architects, engineers, and contractors, especially for public-use structures like clinics, warning that shortcuts in construction are deadly.
Mr Silungwe also issued a stern warning to individuals and developers operating outside the law, stating that anyone endangering lives through illegal construction will face the full force of the law.
“This must serve as a critical lesson. Illegal construction sites operating without council approval and professional input are accidents waiting to happen. ZIA will actively support authorities in identifying and prosecuting such illegal activities,” he said.
Mr Silungwe said the Institute will push its nationwide agenda to curb the costly lawlessness that has engulfed the construction industry and the built environment.