Two directors of Builders Village Limited, Brenda Bukuwa and Sam Sichilalu, were convicted and fined K8,500 each for providing architectural services without certification from the Zambia Institute of Architects (ZIA).
In the event of non-payment, the two, who are both lecturers, would serve two months of simple imprisonment.
The court heard that Bukuwa and Sichilalu admitted to the charge.
Sichilalu also admitted guilt, explaining, “We did not know we were required to register.”
The case dates back to August 2020, when ZIA officials discovered a Facebook page advertising architectural services under the name Village Builders.
An inquiry was sent to the page seeking proof of a practicing certificate, but no response was received. A follow-up inquiry in February 2021 was also ignored.
ZIA escalated the matter to Lusaka Central Police, who conducted further investigations.
Records from PACRA revealed that Bukuwa, Sichilalu, and others were directors of the company.
Checks with ZIA confirmed that neither Bukuwa nor Sichilalu was certified to provide architectural services.
The two, through their lawyer, pleaded for leniency, stating they were first-time offenders who had shown remorse and cooperated with the court.
Their lawyer also noted that their company had created jobs and contributed to the tax base.
Magistrate Mbuywana Sinvula ruled that the offense warranted a fine rather than imprisonment.
“There are no aggravating circumstances in this case. The accused are fined K8,500 each or, in default, will serve two months of simple imprisonment. The fine must be paid immediately,” he stated.
