ZABS, ZCSA Strengthen Partnership to Enhance Standards and Consumer Protection
The Zambia Bureau of Standards (ZABS) and the Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration aimed at enhancing product quality, standards enforcement, and consumer protection.
This follows a courtesy call by ZCSA Executive Director, Mr. Gerald Chizinga, accompanied by members of the senior management team, on ZABS Executive Director, Mr. Nathan Sing’ambwa, at the ZABS Head Office in Lusaka.
The meeting provided a platform for the two institutions to explore opportunities for continued cooperation, particularly in the testing of product samples under compulsory standards, as well as in standards development and improved service delivery.
Speaking during the engagement, Mr. Sing’ambwa emphasised the importance of sustained collaboration between the two National Quality Institutions (NQIs), noting that their partnership is key to advancing standardisation, quality assurance, and consumer protection.
“Engaging with ZCSA in this manner provides an opportunity to appreciate the progress being made, understand the challenges faced, and develop strategies to complement each other’s efforts effectively,” he said.
Mr. Sing’ambwa further stressed the need for both institutions to remain focused on achieving their respective mandates and targets.
Meanwhile, Mr. Chizinga described ZABS as a key stakeholder in the implementation of compulsory standards, which are anchored on national standards.
He underscored the importance of regular engagements to identify areas of improvement for the benefit of both institutions and the country at large.
“It is important that we periodically hold these feedback sessions to explore areas of improvement that will ultimately benefit consumers,” Mr. Chizinga said.
He also commended ZABS management for maintaining an open-door policy, which allows for benchmarking and collaboration on matters of mutual interest, adding that improved efficiency on both sides will enhance the effectiveness of their mandates.
Both leaders pledged to sustain engagement and deepen cooperation between the two institutions.
During the meeting, ZABS Director Technical Services, Mrs. Belinda Soko Kancheya, and ZCSA Director Legal and Compliance, Mrs. Tafuna M. Phiri, delivered presentations outlining the work and strategic focus areas of their respective institutions.
