Investigation on Practice of Ethiopia Building Regulations and Codes of Standard in Mekelle City Municipality - Tigray

Abstract

Since 1983, Ethiopia has established three Building Codes of Standards, along with national building regulations, a building proclamation, building directives, a construction policy, training institutions, a product standardization agency, and directives for licensing contractors and consultants. However, the proper enforcement of these laws, regulations, and standards remains questionable due to poor implementation, inadequate monitoring, and weak oversight by relevant authorities. Additionally, the compatibility of these regulations, policies, codes, and standards with the country's economic development, existing technologies, and available workforce is debatable. As a result, the country continues to experience significant loss of life, property damage, and economic setbacks. This research project aims to investigate the implementation of Ethiopia’s building regulations and codes of standards in the Mekelle City Municipality, Tigray. A review of relevant literature provides a foundation for the study, and data is collected through questionnaire surveys and records reviews. The data is then analyzed using SPSS v.20 software. The study reveals that out of 75 targeted respondents, 61 (86.7%) participated, including contractors, consultants, building officials, and regional professionals. The findings highlight a significant gap between established building regulations and actual practices due to inadequate inspections and weak enforcement mechanisms. The lack of a centralized authority and clearly defined procedures further contributes to non-compliance. Key issues identified include unclear professional responsibilities, insufficient regulation of building materials, and a lack of standardized practices. The failure to implement Ethiopian building regulations and codes of standards stems from multiple factors, including a lack of awareness, weak enforcement mechanisms, corruption, economic constraints, rapid urbanization, political instability, cultural preferences for traditional practices, and inadequate infrastructure for monitoring compliance.