Examining Causes of Project Completion Delay- Case Study of Road Construction Projects in Lusaka

The objective of this research is to identify the factors that lead to delays in completing road construction projects in Lusaka, Zambia. A survey was conducted to collect data from a sample population of 50 people which consisted of 20 RDA (Road Development Agency) staff members, 30 construction companies and 10 staff members from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport. The study has three main objectives: Identify the causes of delays in road construction projects; Evaluate how delay impacts upon the cost of a project, and Assess how inadequate funding for projects had impacted upon road construction.Project Managers play a major role in the successful execution of road construction projects. Consequently, road project managers need to be trained to develop the requisite skill sets needed to complete their road projects on time. There are a number of key reasons as to why road construction projects are delayed. Among those are: 1) Lack of project planning; 2) Poor management of road projects; 3) Insufficient numbers of qualified construction labourers; 4) Inattention to environmental and social issues during project preparation; 5) Utility relocation problems; and 6) Legal disputes with landowners or other adjacent landowners.The cost implications of delay for road construction projects vary depending upon the circumstances. 77.5% of those responding said that delays typically reduce project costs however this can be due to lower cost of labour; better pricing and negotiating on the purchase of construction materials; the ability to improve project designs and/or construction methods and techniques. 90%t of respondents reported that delays increase the duration of the completion of road contracting projects in Zambia & therefore, emphasized some challenges and difficulties which delays exacerbate. Respondent's suggestions included factors contributing to road construction project delays: weather conditions & emergency events; lack of funding; changes in the design of a contracted project; logistical challenges & unforeseen circumstances. Overall there were several recommendations based upon the analysis conducted. Moreover, it was suggested that strategies to address minimizing delays or minimizing associated costs as well as implementing transparent and efficient financial processes be considered as a possible solutions.