The Engineering Institution of Zambia (EIZ) has condemned the Kalomo Town Council for admitting to substandard engineering practices in the construction of the Simwanda Bridge under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), in Nalujwa Ward of Dundumwezi Constituency.
In a press statement issued on Sunday, July 27th, 2025, the Kalomo Council acknowledged engaging a contractor who lacked the necessary technical qualifications, engineering supervision, and appropriate equipment to construct the 60-meter-long public bridge, which is in a poor state.
EIZ President Wesley Kaluba described the council’s actions as unacceptable.
“It is shocking that a public institution would publicly admit to hiring a contractor with no engineering capacity, no qualified engineers on site, and no proper tools or construction methods,” said Mr. Kaluba in a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka.
He noted that the council’s conduct directly violates the Engineering Institution of Zambia Act No. 17 of 2010, which mandates that only registered engineers, technologists, technicians, and artisans are permitted to undertake or supervise engineering works.
Mr. Kaluba further stated that the council’s actions breach the Public Finance Management Act No. 1 of 2018 and the Public Procurement Act No. 8 of 2020, which require transparency, professional accountability, and value for money in all publicly funded projects.
As a corrective measure, Mr. Kaluba has called on the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development to issue immediate guidance to all councils, mandating strict adherence to engineering standards in the implementation of CDF-funded infrastructure projects.
He also urged the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the Office of the Auditor General to investigate potential misuse of CDF funds and professional misconduct related to the Simwanda Bridge.
“All councils must ensure that infrastructure projects are implemented under the direct supervision of registered engineers,” said Mr. Kaluba.
Angel Kasabo
