Department of Construction Management & Technology

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    The Construction Management of High Voltage Transmission Lines
    (Mekelle University, 2026-01-10) Wang Ning
    This study examines the construction management performance of three high-voltage (HV) transmission line projects in Ethiopia—Azezo-Chilga, Fincha II-Shambu, and Metu-Masha 230 kV lines—which are vital for strengthening grid reliability and supporting national electrification goals. Managing these projects presents significant challenges due to complex technical requirements, difficult terrain, logistical constraints, and extensive coordination needs across civil, electrical, and administrative teams. The research aims to evaluate construction management practices, identify the most pressing challenges, and propose evidence-based strategies to improve project efficiency, quality, and safety. A descriptive and exploratory research design was used. Data were collected from 18 key informants (project managers, engineers, site supervisors) and 42 project documents, including contracts, design drawings, test reports, and progress records. The analysis focused on three core dimensions—planning and survey, material and quality management, and execution and commissioning. The findings reveal that planning and survey effectiveness averaged 82%, supported by accurate route selection and reduced rework. Material and quality management performance averaged 76%, though procurement delays and logistics constraints affected tower delivery and conductor stringing schedules. Execution and commissioning achieved 84% performance, driven by strong supervision, safety compliance, and coordinated team workflows. Key challenges included logistical delays (reported in 67% of sites), terrain-related access problems (52%), and coordination gaps among stakeholders (48%). These were mitigated through proactive planning, improved contractor–client communication, and adaptive risk management strategies. Overall, the study concludes that integrated and data-driven construction management significantly improves schedule adherence, cost efficiency, and technical quality in HV transmission line projects. The findings offer practical guidance for policymakers, engineers, and project managers seeking to enhance performance, reliability, and long-term sustainability in Ethiopia’s power transmission infrastructure
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    Challenges and Coping Strategies in Fire Protection Acceptance for Super High-Rise Projects: A Case Study of the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia Headquarters Building Project
    (Mekelle University, 2026-01-10) Wang Ximan
    This study examines the challenges and coping strategies in achieving fire protection acceptance for super high-rise buildings (200 meters and above) through a case study of the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) Headquarters project in Addis Ababa. An embedded single-case study design was employed, utilizing mixed methods to investigate the critical barriers affecting compliance in international contexts. Primary data were collected from 18 key stakeholders, through semi-structured interviews, complemented by project document analysis. Data triangulation was conducted to address three objectives: identify systemic barriers in cross-border fire safety compliance; evaluate the effectiveness of coping strategies implemented in the CBE project; and develop a standardized framework to improve inspection outcomes in overseas super high-rise projects. The findings indicate that regulatory misalignment between international standards, specifically the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and evolving Ethiopian standards accounted for 68% of approval delays. Additionally, technical conflicts contributed to an average critical path delay of 8.2 months, highlighting the complexities of coordinating fire safety compliance across multiple stakeholder groups and jurisdictions. This study contributes to institutional and stakeholder theory by demonstrating how isomorphic pressures influence acceptance outcomes in complex construction projects. Practically, it proposes an integrated framework comprising a decision matrix, a standardized checklist, and a coordination model. Retrospective application of this framework to the CBE project suggests potential reductions in approval timelines by 30–40% and cost savings of $5–8 million per project. These findings offer actionable guidance for practitioners, regulators, and policymakers seeking to improve fire protection compliance efficiency and risk management in super high-rise developments, particularly in emerging economies.
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    Assessment of Employee Localization Practice in Foreign- Contracted Road Projects in Ethiopia: A Case Study of the Hamusit – Estie Asphalt Road Project
    (Mekelle University, 2026-01-10) Yan Dan
    This study assesses employee localization practices in Foreign-contracted road projects in Ethiopia, with a focus on the Hamusit–Estie Asphalt Road Project. Localization the gradual substitution of expatriate staff with competent local professionals is widely recognized as apathway toward sustainable infrastructure development, cost efficiency, and knowledge transfer. Although foreign contractors in Ethiopia employ a large proportion of local workers, especially in operational and support roles, managerial and senior technical positions remain largely Expatriate-held. Recent restrictions on work permits and identification cards have compelled contractors to hire more local employees; however, deeper functional localization remains constrained. Data collected through questionnaires and interviews with local staff, expatriates, and HR managers reveal that language barriers, differing management systems, loyalty and trust concerns, cultural gaps, and limited technical experience are the key obstacles preventing Ethiopians from assuming higher-responsibility positions. The study further identifies that overreliance on expatriates increases project costs through higher remuneration packages and weakens efficiency due to communication and coordination challenges. While Ethiopia’s government promotes localization, enforcement mechanisms are insufficient, and implementation varies widely among contractors. Findings emphasize that numerical localization alone does not guarantee capability transfer. Achieving meaningful progress requires structured training programs, bilingual communication systems, transparent promotion pathways, and stronger policy enforcement that aligns incentives for both contractors and local professionals. The study concludes that under Ethiopia’s current context, a phased and collaborative localization strategy balancing immediate operational realities with long-term capacity building is the most practical route toward sustainable and inclusive project delivery.
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    Health and Safety Risk Management practices in Case of Daye–Chiri–Nansebo Road Construction Project
    (Mekelle University, 2026-01-10) Yang Bin
    The construction industry is widely recognized as one of the most hazardous sectors due to the dynamic nature of construction activities and frequent exposure to occupational risks. In Ethiopia, road construction projects are characterized by complex operations involving heavy machinery, traffic interaction, and challenging environmental conditions, which increase the likelihood of accidents and injuries. Despite the existence of safety regulations, health and safety risk management practices remain inadequate in many construction projects. This study assesses health and safety risk management practices in road construction projects in Ethiopia, using the Daye–Chiri–Nansebo road construction project as a case study. A descriptive research design was adopted, and both quantitative and qualitative data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and site observations. Data were analyzed using the Relative Importance Index (RII) method with the support of SPSS software to identify and rank major health and safety risk factors. The findings indicate that insufficient management commitment, inadequate safety training, poor hazard identification, and limited enforcement of safety regulations are the most significant factors affecting health and safety performance. The study concludes that strengthening safety management systems, improving worker training, and enhancing regulatory enforcement are essential to reducing occupational risks in road construction projects. The results of this study provide practical insights for contractors, consultants, and regulatory bodies seeking to improve health and safety performance in the Ethiopian construction sector.
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    Integrated Engineering Material Management System for Chinese-Funded Infrastructure Projects in Ethiopia: A Study on Procurement, Logistic Warehousing and Lifecycle Optimization
    (Mekelle University, 2026-01-05) Zhang Kaiyuan
    Chinese-funded infrastructure projects in Ethiopia have significantly contributed to national development but often face critical inefficiencies in engineering material management. This study examines procurement, logistics, warehousing, and material lifecycle management practices in selected Chinese-funded energy and transport projects. Using a mixed-methods approach, primary data were collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with project managers, procurement officers, warehouse supervisors, and logistics personnel, while secondary data were obtained from project documents and reports. Findings reveal fragmented procurement processes, inadequate logistics coordination, limited warehouse capacity, manual inventory systems, and poorly integrated material lifecycle management. These challenges result in material shortages, delays, cost overruns, and resource wastage. The study highlights the lack of standardized digital tracking systems and insufficient capacity building for local stakeholders as key contributors to inefficiency. Based on these findings, the research proposes a unified procurement planning system, automated warehouse management, digital lifecycle tracking, enhanced logistics coordination, capacity building, regulatory harmonization, and sustainable material management practices. Implementing these recommendations is expected to improve material flow efficiency, reduce project costs, and promote sustainability in Chinese-funded infrastructure projects in Ethiopia. Integrated Engineering Material Management System for Chinese-Funded
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    Business and Legal Measures for Managing Defects in Contractor Contracts: A Case Study Approach to Public Building Construction Practices in Ethiopia
    (Mekelle University, 2026-01-10) Zhang Lifeng
    This study critically examines the business and legal measures for managing construction defects in public building projects in Ethiopia, using the Supreme Court building project as a case study. Despite the prevalence of defects, limited research has investigated the effectiveness of contractual, legal, and financial mechanisms in addressing these challenges. The study surveyed 15 key stakeholders, including project managers, contractors, subcontractors, legal experts, and client representatives. Findings indicate that construction defects are widespread, primarily caused by poor workmanship, inadequate supervision, design flaws, low-quality materials, and contractor negligence. Both patent (visible) and latent (hidden) defects are common, highlighting persistent quality management issues. While contractual tools such as Defects Liability Periods (DLPs) and retention payments are frequently included, their effectiveness is constrained by weak enforcement and unclear liability allocation. Legal remedies, including damages and indemnities, face procedural delays that reduce their practical impact. Dispute resolution predominantly relies on litigation, although stakeholder preferences are increasingly shifting toward faster, collaborative approaches such as mediation and adjudication. The study concludes that improving defect management requires an integrated approach combining clear contractual frameworks, strengthened enforcement mechanisms, alternative dispute resolution, financial risk instruments, and capacity building for stakeholders. Implementing these measures is expected to enhance contractor accountability, reduce disputes, and improve the quality and sustainability of Ethiopia’s public building projects.
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    Challenges and Impact of Procuring Mechanical & Electrical Materials in Ethiopian Market on Project Execution (Case A: NOC National Oil Headquarter Building and Case B: Shegole Bus Station)
    (Mekelle University, 2026-01-10) Zhao Wenjian
    The procurement of Mechanical and Electrical (M&E) materials is a critical determinant of project success in Ethiopia’s construction sector, yet it poses significant challenges that adversely affect schedule, cost, and quality. Although procurement issues in developing economies are widely recognized, a specific research gap exists regarding M&E materials—distinguished by their technical complexity, certification requirements, and high import dependency. This study addresses this gap by investigating procurement challenges and their impacts through a comparative analysis of two project strategies: import-dependent versus locally sourced. Using a qualitative case study design with embedded quantitative analysis, the research examines the NOC National Oil Headquarter Building Project (import-based) and the Shegole Bus Station Project (locally sourced), supplemented by a survey of ten construction firms. Findings indicate that dependence on imported M&E materials introduces substantial risks, including customs delays, foreign currency shortages, and supply chain disruptions. In the NOC project, these factors led to a 4–5-month overall delay, with M&E procurement accounting for 82% of schedule overrun and a 12.3% cost overrun. Conversely, the Shegole project, using locally sourced materials, showed greater resilience, experiencing only a 2-month delay and a 3.4% cost variance, with challenges related mainly to weather and local market fluctuations. The study concludes that Ethiopia’s reliance on imported M&E components creates systemic vulnerabilities. To address this, the thesis proposes targeted recommendations: project managers should adopt hybrid sourcing and early procurement planning; policymakers should streamline customs and support local manufacturing; and suppliers should pursue quality certifications and collaborative forecasting. This research contributes context-specific insights to construction supply chain management in emerging economies, offering a practical framework to improve procurement efficiency and reduce external dependencies in Ethiopia’s infrastructure development.
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    Assessment of Public Building Construction Delays and Their Impact on Project Success in Mekelle, Tigray
    (Mekelle University, 2025-11-02) Solomon Zeferu
    This research project, titled “Assessing Public Building Construction Delays and Their Impact on Project Success in Mekelle, Tigray,” investigates the persistent problem of delays in public construction projects and their overall influence on project performance. The study focuses on identifying the primary causes of delay, assessing their effects on time, cost, and quality, and proposing strategies to mitigate their impact on future projects. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were gathered from 50 respondents representing contractors, consultants, and clients engaged in public building projects in Mekelle. Structured questionnaires were used, and the collected data were analyzed using the Relative Importance Index (RII) to rank the most significant delay factors. The study findings revealed that delays remain a critical issue in the construction industry, with most public projects exceeding their planned completion schedules and budgets. The leading causes of delay were found to be delay in progress payments, ineffective planning and scheduling, shortage of skilled labor, late material delivery and price escalation, and slow decision-making among project stakeholders. The key effects of these delays include cost overruns, time overruns, low quality of work, contract disputes, and project termination. The research concludes that improving project performance requires addressing financial and managerial inefficiencies, enhancing communication between stakeholders, and enforcing timely decision-making. It recommends that clients ensure consistent payment flows, contractors strengthen project management capabilities, and consultants improve supervision and coordination mechanisms. Furthermore, policymakers should implement delay mitigation frameworks and capacity-building programs within the construction sector. By addressing these issues, construction projects in Mekelle can achieve improved time efficiency, cost control, and overall project success, ultimately contributing to the effective utilization of public resources.
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    EVALUATE THE EFFECTIVENESS OF LOWEST BIDDER BID AWARDING SYSTEM IN PUBLIC CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN CASE OF TIGRAY REGIONAL STATE
    (Mekelle University, 2025-09-04) TSEGAY GEBREMICHAEL
    The Ethiopian construction industry, particularly the public sector in Tigray regional state, faces persistent challenges stemming from a lowest-price bid award system. This approach often fails to deliver maximum value, leading to a high incidence of abnormally low tenders, inferior quality facilities, increased claims and litigation, and frequent cost and schedule overruns in public construction works contracts. To address these critical issues, this research evaluate the effectiveness of public construction projects awarded under the least-bidder system and gathered construction professionals' opinions on current traditional bidding procedures versus alternative evaluation and contract award systems. The methodology involved an extensive literature review to identify diverse practices, a questionnaire survey targeting key construction industry stakeholders in Tigray, and the collection of project data from selected Tigray regional state clients and consultants. This study also reviews Tigray regional state regulations to understand the objectives and intent of current procurement law. Anumber of alternative bid evaluation and contract award procedures, some currently in use globally and others emerging, are presented and discussed, offering potential pathways to improve procurement efficiency and value in the region. Hence, this study found that the construction organizations were evaluated based on lowest bid price awarding system but the contractors should be engaged based on bid price, responsiveness, and other factors. As the contractors didn’t satisfy with the lowest bid awarding evaluation procedure applied currently, the government should collect need assessment from the public building construction contractors so as to have varieties of project procurement awarding system in addition to the mentioned price awarding systems.