it is an assignment on specification course

1. SCHOOL OF CIVIL ENGINEERING AND
ARCHITECTURE
DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE
ADAMA SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
UNIVERSITY
TITLE: Building Construction
Submitted to: Ms. Helen Tafesse
Submission date:12/16/2023
Course Title: Contract, Specification and Quantity
Surveying
Group Name ID No
፩ Arsemawit Wossenyelew…………UGR/23514/13
፪ Bereket Asrat……………………. UGR/22796/13
፫ Bethel Shibru……………………...UGR/22652/13
፬ Kaleb Alem………………………. UGR/22565/13
፭ Kidus Yoseph……………………. UGR/23832/13
SECTION --2

2.  Recent building construction
 In recent years, several highly developed countries have demonstrated remarkable
advancements in the building construction sector, leveraging cutting-edge technologies,
sustainable practices, and innovative design. Among these,
 China has emerged as a global leader, boasting an impressive portfolio of skyscrapers,
high-speed rail projects, and eco-friendly urban developments.
 United States follows closely, showcasing expertise in large-scale infrastructure, smart
buildings, and sustainable construction practices.
 Japan renowned for its earthquake-resistant structures, continues to pioneer advancements
in construction materials and techniques.
 Germany is recognized for its commitment to energy-efficient buildings and sustainable
urban planning.
 South Korea excels in integrating technology, such as smart construction systems and
robotic automation, into its construction projects.
 Comparing Ethiopian building construction with Hong Kong
 Certainly, let's compare Ethiopian and Hong Kong building construction in the recent century
(2000s to the present) across various dimensions:
፩ Skills and Technologies
Ethiopia:
 Skills: A mix of traditional and modern skills, with an emphasis
on training programs to enhance construction capabilities.
 Technologies: Increased adoption of modern construction
technologies, especially in urban areas.
 Example: Bole Lemi Industrial Park in Addis Ababa: This
industrial park, developed in the 2010s, demonstrates the
application of modern construction skills and technologies to
create a hub for manufacturing and economic activities.
Hong Kong:
 Skills: Highly advanced construction skills with a focus on
cutting-edge technologies and techniques.
 Technologies: Continuous innovation and adoption of state-of-
the-art technologies for large-scale projects.
 Example: Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA)
Expansion: The continuous expansion and development of
HKIA showcase Hong Kong's advanced construction skills
and technologies in managing complex infrastructure projects.
፪ Machines
Ethiopia:
 Gradual integration of heavy machinery for increased efficiency in construction.
 Adoption of machinery for tasks such as excavation and transportation.

3. Hong Kong:
 Continued use of advanced machinery, including tower cranes, tunneling
machines, and robotics.
 Highly mechanized construction with the latest equipment.
 Example: Topless Tower Cranes (e.g., Potain MDT CCS City
Crane): In Hong Kong's high-density urban environment, where space
is limited, topless tower cranes have become increasingly popular.
፫ Economy Level
Ethiopia:
 Economic growth impacting the scale and complexity of construction projects.
 Increased investment in infrastructure and urban development.
Hong Kong:
 Sustained economic prosperity supporting ambitious construction projects.
 A high level of economic development influencing construction on a global scale.
፬ Construction Solutions
Ethiopia:
 Emphasis on sustainable and innovative solutions, especially in response
to economic growth.
 Integration of modern construction practices and eco-friendly solutions.
 Example: African Union Conference Center and Office Complex:
Completed in 2012, this project in Addis Ababa exemplifies modern
construction solutions, showcasing sustainable features and
architectural innovation.
Hong Kong:
 Continued emphasis on sustainable and environmentally friendly
construction solutions.
 Integration of smart technologies for enhanced efficiency and
sustainability.
 Example: West Kowloon Cultural District Development: This
ongoing project incorporates cutting-edge construction solutions,
emphasizing sustainability and cultural integration in urban planning.
፭ Architectural Design
Ethiopia:
 Increasing diversity in architectural designs, particularly in urban
areas.
 Blending traditional influences with modern and innovative designs.
 Example: Sheraton Addis Hotel Expansion: The expansion
project, completed in the 2010s, reflects Ethiopia's move towards
diverse and modern architectural designs in the hospitality sector.

4. Hong Kong:
 Architectural innovation continues with the construction of
landmarks like the West Kowloon Railway Station.
 Iconic and sophisticated designs characterize the skyline.
 Example: International Commerce Centre (ICC): As one of the
tallest buildings in Hong Kong, the ICC stands as an example of
sophisticated architectural design and engineering prowess.
፮ Labor Knowledge
Ethiopia:
 Increased training programs and knowledge exchange, blending traditional and modern
techniques.
 Skill enhancement to keep pace with evolving construction practices.
Hong Kong:
 Continuous training and specialization to maintain a highly skilled and specialized labor force.
 Emphasis on staying abreast of technological advancements in the construction industry.
፯ Buildings
Ethiopia:
 Growth in urbanization leading to the construction of mid-rise and high-rise
buildings.
 Diverse building types reflecting economic progress.
 Example: Commercial Bank of Ethiopia Headquarters: The construction of
this high-rise building in Addis Ababa signifies the growth in urbanization and the
development of modern infrastructure.
Hong Kong:
 Construction of even taller and more architecturally sophisticated
skyscrapers, such as the International Commerce Centre.
 Dominance of high-rise structures and skyscrapers.
 Example: Victoria Dockside: This mixed-use development, completed
in the recent years, reflects Hong Kong's commitment to high-density,
vertical construction with a combination of residential, commercial, and
cultural spaces.
፰ Roads
Ethiopia:
 Expansion of road networks, especially in urban areas, to
support economic development.
 Ongoing improvement of transportation infrastructure.
 Example: Ethiopian Roads Authority Projects: Various
road projects initiated in the recent years, like the Addis
Ababa-Adama Expressway, demonstrate efforts to expand
and improve road infrastructure.

5. Hong Kong:
 Ongoing expansion and improvement of road infrastructure,
including projects like the Central-Wan Chai Bypass.
 Well-developed road systems supporting the urban landscape.
 Example: Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge: This mega
infrastructure project connects Hong Kong to neighboring regions,
showcasing advanced road engineering solutions to overcome
geographical challenges.
፱ Soil Type
Ethiopia:
 Increased engineering solutions to address soil challenges in
construction.
 Adaptation to varying soil conditions.
 Example: Addis Ababa Light Rail Project: The
implementation of the light rail system in Addis Ababa requires
adaptation to varying soil conditions, and engineering solutions
are employed to ensure the stability of the rail infrastructure.
Hong Kong:
 Continued focus on advanced soil engineering for stability in
land-scarce areas.
 Engineering solutions to address challenges posed by hilly
terrain and variable soil conditions.
 Example: Lantau Tomorrow Vision: Hong Kong's
ambitious reclamation project, part of the Lantau Tomorrow
Vision, requires innovative soil engineering to reclaim land
from the sea, addressing challenges posed by hilly terrain and
complex soil conditions.
፲ Work Habits
Ethiopia:
 Improved organization and safety standards with the
integration of modern work practices.
 Adoption of efficient project management practices.
 Example: Addis Ababa Integrated Housing Development
Program: The program reflects improved work habits,
organization, and project management in the construction of
housing complexes to address urban housing needs.

6. Hong Kong:
 Continued commitment to safety and efficiency in
construction practices.
 Highly organized work habits with strict adherence to safety
regulations.
 Example: MTR (Mass Transit Railway) Expansion
Projects: The ongoing expansion of Hong Kong's metro
system exemplifies the city's commitment to efficient project
management, safety, and urban mobility.
፩ Landscape
Ethiopia:
 Increased urbanization, with a changing skyline in urban areas.
 Varied landscapes influencing construction practices.
 Example: Entoto Park Project: The development of
recreational and green spaces in Addis Ababa showcases efforts
to shape the urban landscape and improve the quality of life.
Hong Kong:
 Continued urbanization and vertical development, shaping the
skyline further.
 Dominated by a dense and iconic urban landscape.
 Example: Central Reclamation Phase III: The reclamation
project in Hong Kong's Victoria Harbor contributes to reshaping
the urban landscape, creating additional space for development
and enhancing waterfront areas.
 In summary, both Ethiopia and Hong Kong have experienced
significant developments in their building construction sectors in the recent century. Ethiopia has
undergone a transition from traditional to more modern practices, with a focus on sustainable
solutions and urban development. Hong Kong has consistently maintained its position as a global
leader, showcasing advanced skills, cutting-edge technologies, and a commitment to sustainability
in construction. The examples provided highlight key projects that exemplify these changes in
each region.
 Factors Hindering Ethiopian Building Construction Growth:
 The challenges faced by Ethiopian building construction today compared to the Axum and Lalibela
periods can be attributed to various factors. Understanding these challenges is crucial for
identifying potential solutions. Here are key factors and potential solutions:
፩ Economic Constraints:
 Factor: Limited financial resources and economic constraints may hinder large-scale construction
projects.
☺ Solution: Attracting foreign investment, public-private partnerships, and exploring innovative
financing models can help address economic limitations.

7. ፪ Infrastructure Development:
 Factor: Insufficient infrastructure, including transportation and utilities, may impede the efficient
execution of construction projects.
☺ Solution: Prioritizing and investing in comprehensive infrastructure development will create a
supportive environment for construction activities.
፫ Technology Adoption:
 Factor: Limited adoption of modern construction technologies and methods.
☺ Solution: Promoting technology transfer, investing in training programs, and incentivizing the use of
advanced construction methods can bridge the technological gap.
፬ Skilled Labor Shortage:
 Factor: A shortage of skilled labor with expertise in modern construction techniques.
☺ Solution: Implementing training programs, vocational education, and collaborating with educational
institutions can enhance the skill set of the labor force.
፭ Regulatory and Permitting Challenges:
 Factor: Cumbersome regulatory processes and challenges in obtaining permits.
☺ Solution: Streamlining regulatory procedures, implementing transparent and efficient permitting
systems, and promoting a business-friendly environment will encourage construction growth.
፮ Access to Materials:
 Factor: Limited access to quality construction materials, impacting the quality and durability of
structures.
☺ Solution: Investing in local material production, improving supply chains, and ensuring quality
standards will enhance the availability of construction materials.
፯ Sustainability Concerns:
 Factor: Limited focus on sustainable construction practices.
☺ Solution: Integrating sustainable design principles, promoting eco-friendly construction materials, and
enforcing green building standards can address sustainability concerns.
፰ Urbanization Challenges:
 Factor: Rapid urbanization without adequate planning can lead to infrastructure strain.
☺ Solution: Implementing comprehensive urban planning strategies, including zoning regulations and
infrastructure development plans, can mitigate challenges associated with unplanned urban growth.
 Solutions to Enhance Ethiopian Building Construction:
 Capacity Building
 Investment Promotion
 Technology Transfer
 Regulatory Reforms
 Infrastructure Development
 Local Material Production
 Sustainable Construction Practices
 Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
 Urban Planning
 By addressing these factors and implementing strategic solutions, Ethiopian building construction
can overcome current challenges and aspire to achieve growth comparable to the historic periods
of Axum and Lalibela. The key lies in a holistic approach that involves stakeholders from the
public and private sectors, embraces innovation, and prioritizes sustainable development.