THE Institute of Architecture Zimbabwe (IAZ) is set to host a major conference on the development of climate-resilient architecture and infrastructure.
The event, scheduled for next week, aims to raise awareness of sustainable building practices and explore innovative solutions for minimizing the impact of climate change on the built environment.
Speaking ahead of the conference, IAZ President Brighton Madondo highlighted the importance of integrating architecture with the natural ecosystem to mitigate climate change effects.
“Through this conference, we want to raise awareness on the importance of maintaining the natural ecosystem to minimize the impacts of climate change.”
“We are also going to highlight the role of architectural design in contributing to the natural ecosystem and curbing climate change, as well as emphasizing the need to promote sustainable design and green architecture to preserve the environment for future generations,” Madondo said.
Zimbabwe has made strides in adopting green building practices, but progress has been hampered by financial and policy constraints. The construction sector has seen increasing interest in sustainable development, particularly through energy-efficient structures, water conservation efforts, and the use of eco-friendly materials. However, widespread adoption remains limited.
Madondo noted that government incentives could play a crucial role in accelerating green architecture adoption.
“We think the government should provide incentives for the use of recycled and locally sourced materials in construction to reduce environmental impact,” he said.
He also called for mandatory green building codes and standards requiring developers to meet sustainability criteria such as energy efficiency and water conservation.
Moreover, Madondo said policies prioritizing renewable energy—such as solar and wind power—would further encourage sustainable construction in Zimbabwe.
According to Madondo, Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) are a viable solution to Zimbabwe’s financing challenges in the adoption and implementation of sustainable construction.
“PPPs can mobilize additional funding and provide alternative sources of financing for infrastructure, particularly where governments face financial constraints,” he explained. “They also help attract private sector investment, which is crucial for large-scale projects that support economic and environmental goals.”
Madondo said the need for policymakers and architects to collaborate in addressing challenges impeding the development of environmentally sustainable buildings.
“Architects are custodians of the built environment, and their decisions heavily influence a structure’s energy efficiency, material selection, and overall environmental impact,” he said.
“By working with policymakers, they can drive the implementation of sustainable building techniques with a positive environmental impact.”
The upcoming conference themed “AFRICA’S URBAN BILLION: Developing Climate Resilient Architecture & Infrastructure” is expected to bring together architects, policymakers, investors, and other stakeholders to discuss actionable steps for mainstreaming climate-resilient architecture in Zimbabwe.