Architects face punishment over substandard Society Business Park

By Paul Shalala

The Zambia Institute of Architects -ZIA- has warned its members who were involved in the construction of the Society Business Park in Lusaka that they risk being punished for the substandard work.

Institute President MUSUNKA SILUNGWE says the ZIA is investigating the matter surrounding Society Business Park and will punish anyone found wanting.

Speaking at a press briefing in Lusaka today, Mr. SILUNGWE said it is unfortunate that big investments like Hilton Hotel were forced to shut down due to safety concerns on the structure.

And the Zambia Institute of Architects says action will be taken soon on MUSUSU KALENGA Building along Katondo Street in Lusaka which has been unoccupied for many decades.

Zambia Institute of Architects Member of the Standards Committee HECTOR SIKAZWE said MUSUSU KALENGA Building is now a den of vices such as prostitution, illegal occupation and a hiding place for thieves.

Dr. SIKAZWE said the institute is working with the Lusaka City Council to bring sanity to the building.

And Inspector General of Police GRAPHEL MUSAMBA has threatened prosecution and deportation of illegal architects in the country for endangering the lives of people due to substandard work.

In a speech read for him by Zambia Police Director Legal and Professional Standards JOHN DAKA at a press briefing in Lusaka, Mr. MUSAMBA said Zambians are risking their lives by engaging unregistered architects to build their houses or business premises.