The statutory body for architecture in Zambia — advancing professional excellence, setting standards, and championing the built environment for all.
Established under the Zambia Institute of Architects Act, Cap 442, ZIA regulates the profession, advances architectural knowledge, and protects the public interest in Zambia's built environment.
Maintain the official register of architects and firms, ensuring only qualified professionals practise architecture in Zambia.
The RegisterUphold standards of conduct, competence, and ethics, and address professional misconduct under the ZIA Act.
Legal FrameworkProvide continuing professional development, training programmes, and resources that keep architects current and competent.
CPD InformationRepresent the profession in policy discussions, publish guidance, and promote sustainable, excellent architecture for all Zambians.
Policy Briefs
Founded in 1954 as the Northern Rhodesia Institute of Architects and renamed at independence in 1964, ZIA became a statutory body in 1995 under the Zambia Institute of Architects Act, Cap 442. Today we register architects and firms, regulate professional conduct, set competency standards, deliver CPD, and advocate for a sustainable built environment that serves every Zambian.
ZIA supports architects at every stage — from students to fellows. Find the membership category and resources that match your journey.
Just starting out? Learn how to get involved with ZIA early in your career.
Practising in architecture? Register with ZIA and gain professional recognition.
Full membership with access to CPD, events, and the member directory.
Recognised for outstanding service to the profession and the built environment.
Stay up to date with ZIA events, announcements, and news — follow us on Facebook.
Hear from architects and collaborators who are shaping Zambia's built environment.
30 Years of Practice
The Next Generation
Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration
ZIA was established in 1995 under the Architects Act, Cap 442 of the Laws of Zambia.
Zambia has over 500 registered architects serving a population of 18 million.
The ZIA Awards Program has recognized excellence in Zambian architecture for over 15 years.
Continuing Professional Development became mandatory for all registered architects in 2010.
ZIA's membership includes practitioners across all 10 provinces of Zambia.
