Sat, 26 Aug 2017 10:57:29 +0000
By Mailesi Banda
THE National Council for Construction has cautioned PADIC Sugar Plantation project in Shangombo to stop contracting unregistered contractors as this was against the law.
NCC Public Relations Officer, Chama Mwansa said they had conducted verification inspections at the project site and found that some contractors were working illegally.
In a press statement made available to the Daily Nation, she said the contractors were contravening with the NCC Act number 13 of 2003 which stated that, “a person shall not award a contract for any construction works of such value as the minister may, by statutory instrument, upon the recommendation of the council, determine to another person unless that other person is registered under this Act.”
Ms. Mwansa said the NCC code of conduct for contractors stated that, “a contractor should not undertake, construction works awarded in terms of competitive tender, quotation or to otherwise unless the contractor is registered under the Act.
“It is unfortunate that a number of illegal projects have been awarded in respect to this project. Contractors are advised to adhere to provisions of Section 4 of Statutory Instrument No. 39 of 2015 of the NCC which states that a person who is awarded a construction contract shall apply to the council for the registration of the project within fourteen days from the date of the contract,” she said.
Ms Mwansa advised that suppliers and manufacturers of construction materials to the project should ensure they are in compliance with the provisions of the NCC Act.
She explained that the proprietors of PADIC Sugar Plantation had been issued with a caution letter reminding them to ensure all their clients were in compliance with set laws and regulations under the laws of Zambia.
“We are mandated to regulate the industry through appropriate institutions, boards and other authorities as the case maybe. Therefore, all architectural and engineering designs should conform to Zambian standards and should be approved by the respective Zambian professional bodies or registered Zambian professional firms,” Ms Mwansa said.
She also advised contractors and consultants to adhere to the NCC Act no 13 of 2003 and its subsequent regulations to ensure compliance with the law and also ensure quality, safety and value for money on all construction works.
