Analyzing the influencing factors for contractors in opening prefabrication factories: a Sub-Saharan African case study

Purpose It is clear that some research has been done on this issue in many developed countries, but attention needs to be paid to the development of prefabricated construction (PC) in developing countries. PC is gaining momentum in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), a region with a burgeoning construction industry. However, this industry still lacks sufficient development and participation from regional contractors. From a SSA’s point of view, there is a significant gap in understanding the influencing factors and their implications in opening prefabrication factories. As a major developing country, China’s PC deserves special attention and lessons. Therefore, we provide a boost to PC’s long-term development in SSA based on some Chinese and international prefabrication industry experiences. Design/methodology/approach To address this gap, this paper proposes a methodology for analyzing the influencing factors for contractors in opening prefabrication factories in SSA. The proposed method consists of three phases: (1) a quantitative questionnaire survey using a five-point Likert scale, (2) confirmatory factor analysis to test the observed variables and (3) structural equation modeling to model the interconnections of the observed variables and analyze their direct and indirect linkages. Findings The results of this integrated analysis identify novel and significant major factors influencing contractors in the establishment of prefabrication factories and their impact on developing and promoting of prefabricated buildings in SSA countries. Additionally, the results highlight essential aspects for policymakers to formulate supportive regulatory frameworks and provide government incentives and support for contractors, developing market penetration strategies, promotion of project innovations, integration of advanced technologies, incorporation of sustainable materials to enhance the industry standard and encourage international knowledge transfer of PC to SSA. Originality/value This research supports policymakers, stakeholders, consumers, researchers and contractors in identifying and improving the influencing factors and their interrelationships. It enables interested parties to devise more effective strategies to promote PC development in SSA to alleviate the housing shortage and provide affordable and sustainable housing solutions. Additionally, PC development reduces construction (residential) costs while creating jobs that can stimulate the local economy and contribute to the long-term growth of infrastructure development and technological advances in the region.