THE Zambia Institute of Architects (ZIA) has launched its 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Conference, set for November 12 to 14 in Livingstone, under the theme “Architecture Beyond Bricks: Building Functional Cities.”
Speaking at a press briefing this morning, ZIA president Musunka Silungwe said the conference will focus on promoting safer, better planned cities and addressing the growing problem of unregulated construction across the country.
Silungwe said the theme also ties in with this year’s World Architecture Day, which falls tomorrow, October 6 and carries the global theme “Design for Strength.”
He explained that architecture plays a critical role in shaping safe, functional communities, yet most Zambian cities have been built without proper planning.
“When you look at our cities now, it’s evident that there is a lot of disorder. Anyone can build anything, anywhere, without considering safety or design standards,” he said.
“More than 90 percent of structures are illegal, misplaced or substandard.”
He stated that architecture is not just about drawing plans for buildings, but involves scientific processes to ensure that structures are safe and sustainable.
Silungwe revealed that several individuals have recently been arrested for providing architectural services without registration, adding that it is an offence to operate outside the law.
He said issues such as urban congestion, unplanned settlements, and flooding will be discussed during the conference, as these continue to affect the safety and quality of life in many communities.
“We don’t want people to continue living in unsafe conditions. Substandard structures will need to be replaced with proper, compliant buildings,” said Silungwe.
Meanwhile, Zambia has been chosen to host the secretariat of the African Union of Architects following the election of Dr. Sydney Ngoma as the organisation’s Secretary General.
Silungwe said this development reflects Zambia’s growing role in continental architecture and aligns with the country’s membership in the Union of International Architects and the African Union of Architects.
He further said the Livingstone conference will provide a platform for professionals and international delegates to discuss how to build stronger, safer and more functional cities for the future.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, October 5, 2025
