The document summarizes an experimental study on the effect of lateral reinforcement and mineral admixtures on short concrete columns. In the first phase, short columns were cast with varying volumetric ratios and spacing of lateral steel reinforcement. In the second phase, rice husk ash (RHA) was used as a mineral admixture in short columns. The columns were tested to determine their ultimate load capacity. Test results showed that increasing the volumetric ratio of steel reinforcement and using 10% RHA both increased the strength and ductility of the columns. Brittle failure was observed in columns without RHA or tightly spaced reinforcement. Zones of rupture at the top and bottom decreased with less reinforcement spacing. Compressive strength generally increased with the