ENGINEERING AND SERVICES

The Department of Engineering is responsible for the delivery of engineering services aimed at improving infrastructure and public safety in Namwala District. It oversees the construction and maintenance of roads, drainage systems, public buildings, and electrical infrastructure. The Department also manages the Council’s fleet and workshops, provides fire and rescue services, and supports the development of parks, gardens, and water transport facilities. Additionally, it coordinates rural water supply and sanitation services to improve hygiene and living standards in rural communities.

CORE FUNCTIONS

The Department performs the following key functions:

  • Construct and maintain roads, drainage systems, and public buildings.
  • Facilitate provision and maintenance of electricity and street lighting.
  • Supervise construction and maintenance of airports, aerodromes, and airstrips.
  • Conduct inspections for motor vehicle and vessel licensing.
  • Prepare bills of quantity and tender documents for infrastructure projects.
  • Provide architectural services to ensure compliance with building standards.
  • Maintain Council vehicles, equipment, and mechanical workshops.
  • Manage parks, gardens, and open spaces to enhance urban aesthetics.
  • Provide dredging and pontoon crossing services in waterbody areas.
  • Deliver fire and rescue services to safeguard lives and property.
  • Coordinate the provision of rural water supply and sanitation services.
  • Implement Constituency Development Fund (CDF) infrastructure projects.

DEPARTMENTAL STRUCTURE

The Department is headed by the Director – Engineering, supported by the Assistant Director – Engineering and the Divisional Fire Officer. It is structured into one section and one unit:

ENGINEERING SECTION

This section is responsible for all engineering-related services, including infrastructure development, parks and gardens, vehicle and equipment maintenance, and water transport systems. It is subdivided into seven (7) functional units:

  1. Maintenance and Electrical Engineering Unit
  • Installs and maintains street and traffic lights.
  • Designs and maintains public electrical systems and buildings.
  • Oversees maintenance and rehabilitation of public properties.
  1. Quantity Surveying Unit
  • Prepares cost estimates, bills of quantities, and tender documents.
  • Monitors construction project costs and contract performance.
  1. Architecture Unit
  • Designs public buildings and prepares working drawings.
  • Supervises construction projects and manages contracts.
  1. Parks and Gardens Unit
  • Develops and manages parks, gardens, and open spaces.
  • Provides landscaping and horticultural services.
  1. Roads and Drainages Unit
  • Designs, constructs, and maintains roads, drainage systems, and airstrips.
  • Supports procurement and contract supervision for road projects.
  1. Mechanical Services Unit
  • Maintains and repairs Council vehicles, machinery, and pontoons.
  • Conducts vehicle inspections and manages mechanical workshops.
  • Offers equipment leasing and maintains dredging facilities.
  1. Pontoons and Ferries Sub-Unit
  • Operates and maintains pontoon crossing services.
  • Ensures safety compliance and collects user fees.
  1. Vehicle Maintenance Services Sub-Unit
  • Repairs and maintains vehicles and equipment.
  • Conducts inspections for vehicle licensing and compliance.
  1. Rural Water and Sanitation Unit
  • Coordinates rural water supply and sanitation services.
  • Oversees the maintenance of water infrastructure and hygiene systems.
  1. FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICES UNIT

This unit provides emergency fire and rescue services across the District. It is also responsible for fire safety training, inspections, and coordination with stakeholders to ensure infrastructure fire readiness.

Core Responsibilities:

  • Deliver firefighting and rescue services.
  • Conduct fire safety training and research.
  • Inspect public premises for fire safety compliance.
  • Maintain fire vehicles and rescue equipment.

©2022. SMART Zambia Institute. All Rights Reserved.