By Staff Reporter
Zimbabwe’s construction sector has experienced significant growth over the past decade, but with it has come a persistent challenge—material overruns and unpredictable costing. For many homeowners, developers, and Diaspora investors hoping to build in Zimbabwe, navigating these issues has become just as important as selecting a plot or drawing up architectural plans.
The Challenge of Material Overruns
Material overruns—the difference between what was budgeted and what is actually required—are among the most common problems on local building sites. Poor project planning, inaccurate Bill of Quantities (BoQ), and changes during construction often lead to shortages or surpluses. For instance, a client may budget for 1,000 bags of cement but end up requiring 1,200 due to underestimated foundation depths or late design changes.
Compounding this issue is Zimbabwe’s volatile economy, where exchange rate fluctuations and supply shortages can cause material prices to change overnight. A builder budgeting for reinforcement steel today may find the cost has risen by 15% by the time it is needed on-site.
Understanding Material Costing
To avoid surprises, experts stress the importance of a detailed and realistic BoQ. This document, prepared by quantity surveyors, outlines the exact materials required, from cement and bricks to roofing sheets and paint. Yet, even with a BoQ, costing is rarely static in Zimbabwe.
• Cement: Prices vary depending on supply and demand, often rising during peak building seasons.
• Bricks: Transport costs significantly influence final pricing, especially for Diaspora clients building in remote areas.
• Steel & Roofing Materials: Imported components make them vulnerable to currency swings.
• Finishes (tiles, fittings, paint): Clients often underestimate the cost of finishes, which can account for up to 30% of the total project cost.
The Diaspora Dilemma
For many in the Diaspora, the greatest challenge lies in trust and transparency. Sending funds home for material purchases without visibility often leads to inflated costs, misuse of funds, or outright losses.
This is where Formulax Construction’s Diaspora Build service has stepped in. Designed specifically for Zimbabweans abroad, it allows clients to manage their projects from anywhere in the world. Through the service, clients not only receive architectural planning, BoQs, and full project management but can also purchase materials directly from the Formulux online store
Buying Materials from Abroad, Delivering in Zimbabwe
The Formulux online store is changing how Diaspora builders approach construction. From cement and sand to fittings, fixtures, and specialized finishes, the store allows clients to:
• Shop from the Diaspora – Securely purchase construction materials using international payment methods.
• Ensure Delivery in Zimbabwe – Materials are delivered directly to the site, cutting out middlemen.
• Maintain Cost Transparency – Prices are clearly listed, avoiding the “back-and-forth” often experienced when relying on third parties.
• Track Purchases – Clients can keep digital records of every purchase, which ties directly into their project management plan.
Avoiding Costly Mistakes
For potential builders, the key to controlling costs and avoiding overruns lies in:
1. Early Planning – Secure a BoQ and design approval before mobilizing a single bag of cement.
2. Use Trusted Suppliers – Work with established suppliers or platforms like Formulax’s store to avoid inflated pricing.
3. Plan for Contingencies – Always budget an additional 10–15% for unforeseen overruns.
4. Leverage Technology – Track spending and deliveries digitally, especially when building remotely.
The Future of Building in Zimbabwe
Despite the challenges, Zimbabwe’s construction sector remains a lucrative opportunity. Diaspora-driven projects—from family homes to commercial properties—continue to rise. With services like Formulux Diaspora Build and innovations such as the online material store, transparency and efficiency are steadily improving.
For the Diaspora builder, the message is clear: with the right planning, partners, and tools, material overruns can be minimized, and every dollar spent can go exactly where it should—into brick and mortar on Zimbabwean soil.