Herald Reporter
Infrastructure experts and industry stakeholders are set to explore ways of extending the lifespan of roads, bridges, dams and mining facilities at an upcoming conference focusing on structural resilience and investment protection.
The two-day conference, themed “Engineered to endure: Enhancing structural resilience to strengthen infrastructure and protect investment”, is set for October 28 and 29.
It comes as the country has stepped up investment in infrastructure to support economic growth and industrial development.
The initiative seeks to promote the use of durable construction materials, effective protective systems and proactive maintenance to prevent premature deterioration of infrastructure and reduce the cost of repairs and replacement.
Major investments are being channelled towards transport networks, road and bridge rehabilitation, dams and reservoirs, as well as the development and revitalisation of mines.
Conference architect Ms Sharai Zinyemba said prioritising quality and preventive maintenance from the outset was essential to avoiding unnecessary costs and protecting infrastructure.
“The principle is simple, invest in getting it right from the beginning, rather than paying repeatedly for preventable failures,” she said.
Ms Zinyemba said local and regional experts would share practical knowledge and case studies on extending infrastructure lifespans, reducing maintenance costs and safeguarding investments.
The conference will also examine the protection of mining infrastructure, which is exposed to conditions that can accelerate deterioration.
Processing plants, structural steel, storage tanks and conveyor systems require appropriate protective measures to minimise corrosion, prevent leaks and maintain operational efficiency.
Failure to protect such assets can disrupt production, increase maintenance costs and expose workers to hazardous substances, making effective asset management and environmental safeguards essential.
Participants are expected to discuss regulations, material selection, protective technologies and engineering practices that can strengthen structural resilience and ensure infrastructure delivers lasting value.
The conference will bring together engineers, architects, quantity surveyors, contractors, developers, mining companies, financial institutions and investors to examine their shared responsibility in delivering durable infrastructure.
The discussions are expected to emphasise the importance of considering the entire service life of infrastructure, from design and construction to maintenance and rehabilitation, to maximise returns on investment and support sustainable development.
