Zambia Highlights Metrology Awareness at 60ᵗʰ CIML Meeting in Paris
Zambia has showcased its national initiatives on metrology awareness at the 60ᵗʰ Meeting of the International Committee of Legal Metrology (CIML) and the 17ᵗʰ OIML Conference, held at the Van der Valk Hotel near Paris CDG Airport.
The events brought together metrology leaders from over 100 countries to discuss digital transformation, legal metrology modernisation, and global harmonisation of measurement standards.
Mr Humphrey Nkobeni, Executive Director of the Zambia Metrology Agency (ZMA) and Chairperson of the AFRIMETS Technical Committee on Legal Metrology (TC Legal) and SADCMEL, presented a paper titled “Metrology Awareness – A Case of the Zambia Metrology Agency.”
His presentation highlighted Zambia’s efforts to raise public understanding of the role of accurate measurement in trade, industry, environmental protection, and consumer safety.
Key highlights included:
- Building a Measurement Culture: Mr Nkobeni stressed that awareness of metrology is crucial for citizens, industries, and policymakers to appreciate the socio-economic impact of precise measurements.
- National Outreach Initiatives: ZMA has conducted campaigns through radio programmes, exhibitions, schools, and trade events, promoting trust in measurements used daily—from fuel dispensing to food labelling.
- Stakeholder Collaboration: The agency has partnered with government ministries, industry associations, universities, and the media to foster a strong national measurement culture.
As Chairperson of AFRIMETS TC Legal, Mr Nkobeni also reflected on Africa’s progress in strengthening legal metrology systems, advocating for enhanced collaboration among member states and greater engagement with OIML programmes. He emphasised the need for increased investment in awareness campaigns and capacity building to maximise the benefits of international best practices.
Delegates, including Dr Bobjoseph Mathew, current CIML/OIML President, commended Zambia’s innovative approach, noting that awareness is fundamental to compliance and consumer confidence. The Zambian delegation comprised Board Chairperson Mr Musamala Josia Nyirongo, Executive Director Mr Humphrey Nkobeni, and Director of Legal Metrology Dr Michael Nsefu.
The conference coincided with the 70ᵗʰ anniversary of the OIML, celebrating decades of global leadership in measurement standardisation. Zambia’s active participation reinforced its commitment to advancing legal metrology both nationally and across the African continent.
