Government says Zambia has successfully adopted the African Association of Quantity Surveyors’ Standard Method of Measurement (SMM), making it the first country to implement the framework. Minister of Infrastructure and Urban Development, Collins Nzovu, says the development marks…

 Government says Zambia has successfully adopted the African Association of Quantity Surveyors’ Standard Method of Measurement (SMM), making it the first country to implement the framework.

Minister of Infrastructure and Urban Development, Collins Nzovu, says the development marks a significant milestone for the quantity surveying profession, noting that Zambia had been using measurement standards dating back to 1973.

 Mr Nzovu made the remarks in a speech read for him by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Albert Malama, during the Zambia Institute of Quantity Surveyors 2026 Annual Conference in Lusaka today.

Mr Nzovu said the adoption of the new standards will help strengthen professional practice and improve the delivery of infrastructure projects.

He urged the government institutions, mining companies and private investors to engage quantity surveyors from the early stages of project planning to ensure cost efficiency, accountability and value for money.

The Minister noted that quantity surveyors play a critical role in preparing reliable project cost estimates, managing contracts and ensuring that infrastructure projects are delivered within budget and on schedule.

He has also called for stronger collaboration between government, industry players and professional institutions to build capacity in commercial management, digital technology, contract administration and sustainability.

Zambia Institute of Quantity Surveyors President, Timothy Musole, has called for   early involvement of quantity surveyors in infrastructure, mining and energy projects to enhance value for money and ensure effective financial management.

Mr Musole says quantity surveyors should be engaged from the investment decision-making stage through construction, operation and maintenance to ensure projects are delivered within budget and provide lasting benefits.

And African Association of Quantity Surveyors (AAQS) President, Victor Odongo, called on African governments to ensure quantity surveyors are actively involved in the planning, budgeting and implementation of major infrastructure projects.

Mr Odongo indicated that involving quantity surveyors in the early stages of project development will help ensure realistic budgeting, prevent cost overruns and promote timely completion of infrastructure projects.