Government has commissioned the Bridge Maintenance and Management Centre at the University of Zambia (UNZA), marking a major milestone in strengthening the country’s capacity for sustainable bridge management.
Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, Permanent Secretary Professor Albert Malama, says the Centre is as a result of the Improvement of Bridge Maintenance Capability Building in Zambia – Phase Two Project, supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
Prof Malama described the Centre as a demonstration of JICA’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure management, institutional strengthening, and human capital development.
“Bridges are critical components of national infrastructure. They connect communities, facilitate trade, and support economic activity. But their long-term value depends on proper maintenance and monitoring,” Prof Malama said.
The Permanent Secretary added that the Government has prioritised preventive maintenance and infrastructure asset management as key pillars of sustainable development, and the Centre directly strengthens Zambia’s technical and institutional capacity in bridge management.
The facility, housed within UNZA’s School of Engineering, has been equipped with modern classrooms, specialised inspection tools, and a wheel running fatigue machine that will enhance structural performance assessments and long-term safety of bridges.
And speaking at the same handover ceremony, UNZA Vice Chancellor, Professor Mundia Muya said the Centre symbolises innovation, capacity building, and international cooperation.
“The Centre will provide students, researchers, and practitioners with hands-on experience in bridge inspection, monitoring, and maintenance planning, bridging the gap between academic training and industry requirements,” Prof Muya said.
He added that the facility will serve as a national hub for research, innovation, and professional development, supporting engineers from government institutions, local authorities, and the private sector.
Prof Muya acknowledged valued partners, including Gifu University, the National Council for Construction, and the Road Development Agency, whose expertise and collaboration contributed to the project’s success.
Meanwhile, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Chief Representative, Tomoko Ono said bridges are vital to Zambia’s economic growth and regional connectivity, adding that proper maintenance is critical to prevent costly failures.
Dr Ono noted that the center draws inspiration from Japan’s own Maintenance Expert programme while tailoring solutions to Zambia’s context.
She further assured of JICA’s continued support to BMMC through a new technical cooperation project beginning in March.
The Centre is expected to produce skilled professionals, innovative research outputs, and practical solutions to safeguard Zambia’s bridge infrastructure for generations to come.
