By Brenda Mazhambe
Zimbabwe is moving closer to enacting the long-awaited Construction Contractors Act, a law designed to overhaul regulation of the country’s construction sector through the establishment of the Construction Contractors Authority.
The push for the legislation comes amid a building boom, with large-scale housing projects and infrastructure development taking place across cities, peri-urban settlements, and rural areas. Previously underdeveloped zones are being upgraded to meet the growing demand for modern housing and public services.
Despite this expansion, the lack of a strong regulatory framework has raised concerns about poor workmanship, inconsistent standards, and limited consumer protection.
Industry stakeholders recently convened a consultation workshop to discuss the Bill’s provisions and ensure the legislation is robust enough to regulate the sector effectively.
At the heart of the Bill is the creation of the Construction Contractors Authority, a regulatory body tasked with overseeing the activities of contractors, manufacturers, suppliers, and other service providers in the construction sector.
The Authority will set minimum standards, promote best practices, and ensure quality workmanship. It will also publish guidelines and standards on occupational safety and health while encouraging innovation across the industry.
In addition to its regulatory role, the Authority will maintain a comprehensive register of contractors, suppliers, and service providers, grading them according to competence and capacity. It will manage industry funds, regulate investments, and empower auditors to enforce transparency and accountability.
The Bill also recognises the role of contractor associations, formalising their participation in promoting professionalism, providing training, and facilitating dispute resolution. By introducing enforceable codes of practice, the legislation is expected to curb substandard construction and protect public infrastructure.
Another key feature of the Bill is the introduction of grades and categorisation of contractors. Categories include building contractors, civil engineering contractors, electrical and mechanical engineering contractors, as well as providers of specialised services such as painting, fitting, flooring, shop fitting, and plant hire, among others.
Each grade will have specific qualification and competency requirements to ensure industry standards are upheld.
Once enacted, the Construction Contractors Act is expected to strengthen consumer protection, raise industry standards, and create opportunities for local contractors and suppliers to contribute meaningfully to national development.
