As Tanzania scales up investment in major infrastructure projects, the role of quantity surveyors is gaining prominence, with government officials and industry leaders stressing that no project can achieve true value for money without their involvement.
Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Works, Dr. Charles Msonde, said quantity surveyors have become indispensable in ensuring projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and at the right quality.
“Quantity surveyors are no longer optional. Their expertise in cost control and contract management has been central to the successful completion of projects, preventing unnecessary delays and cost overruns,” Dr. Msonde said when opening the 31st Annual General Meeting of the Tanzania Institute of Quantity Surveyors (TIQS) in Dodoma.
The recognition comes at a time when the country is witnessing rapid growth in construction, with billions of shillings committed to roads, energy projects, housing, schools, and hospitals.
Analysts say such expansion requires strict financial discipline, which quantity surveyors are uniquely positioned to provide.
TIQS President, QS Bernad Ndakidemi, underscored the growing importance of the profession, noting that the institute now has more than 1,100 members since its establishment in 1987.
However, he cautioned that many projects still proceed without the involvement of quantity surveyors, often resulting in poor financial outcomes.
“There remains a misconception that engineers alone can manage every aspect of construction projects. This has led to projects stalling or exceeding budgets. To protect public resources and guarantee value for money, every project should engage a qualified quantity surveyor,” he said.
Recent amendments to the Architects and Quantity Surveyors Registration Board (AQRB) Act have strengthened the profession by formally recognizing quantity surveying as a key career within the construction industry.
Acting Registrar of AQRB, Arch. Dr. Daniel Gittu Matondo, said the board is committed to working closely with TIQS to align professional standards with both national priorities and international benchmarks.
“Our aim is to ensure the profession not only supports Tanzania’s infrastructure agenda but also competes globally,” he said.
With mega-projects such as the Standard Gauge Railway, hydropower plants, and urban infrastructure underway, experts argue that demand for quantity surveyors will continue to rise.
Beyond ensuring accountability, their growing involvement is also expected to open new opportunities for young professionals and support Tanzania’s long-term development goals.