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Two directors of Builders Village Limited have been convicted and fined K8,500 each for providing architectural services without a valid certificate of practice from the Zambia Institute of Architects (ZIA).
Brenda Bukuwa, 38, and Sam Sichilalu, 43, both lecturers, faced charges in the Lusaka Magistrate’s Court.
In default of paying the fine, they would serve two months of simple imprisonment.
When asked to plead, Bukuwa admitted to the charge:
Court: “Were you offering architectural services?”
Bukuwa: “Yes.”
Court: “Is your institution registered with ZIA?”
Bukuwa: “No.”
Court: “Do you have any justifiable or lawful reason for not registering?”
Bukuwa: “No.”
Sichilalu also admitted to the charge, explaining that they were unaware of the requirement to register their practice.
According to the facts presented in court, the matter came to light on August 27, 2020, when ZIA official Muvwanga and an inspector discovered a Facebook page for Builders Village Limited advertising architectural services.
Attempts to contact the company in August 2020 and February 2021 went unanswered.
Subsequent investigations revealed that the company was registered under Bukuwa, Sichilalu, and others at the Patents and Companies Registration Agency (PACRA).
However, none of the directors were registered architects with ZIA.
The findings were corroborated by ZIA secretary Daizy Chasaya, who confirmed that the accused were not certified practitioners.
The defence lawyer submitted that accused were first-time offenders and had shown remorse.
The court was urged to consider their cooperation, the employment opportunities their company created, and the fact that they were taxpayers.
Magistrate Mbuywana Sinvula ruled that since the offense attracted a fine, and there were no aggravating circumstances, the court had discretion to impose a penalty.
“I find the accused guilty and sentence them to pay K8,500 each or serve two months of simple imprisonment in default. The fine is to be paid forthwith,” Magistrate Sinvula stated.
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