Quality Matters

..... ZCSA Ensures Standards for Consumer Protection and Economic Growth at N’Cwala Ceremony

By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia - (20-02-2025) - The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) reiterated its dedication to ensuring public safety and consumer protection.

Brian Hatyoka, ZCSA's Manager of Communications and Public Relations, said when he paid a courtesy call on Eastern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Dr. Lewis Mwape, held alongside the N’Cwala traditional ceremony that the agency is a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, established by the Compulsory Standards Act No. 3 of 2017.

Hatyoka expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with provincial leadership and highlighted the agency’s critical role in administering, maintaining, and enforcing compulsory standards aimed at protecting public safety, health, and the environment.

“The ZCSA is mandated to educate the public about compulsory standards and provide information regarding products that do not comply with these regulations,” he stated.

He emphasized the agency's function of raising awareness about the risks associated with non-compliant products.

During the N’Cwala ceremony, ZCSA focused on informing the public about the dangers of substandard electrical products.

Hatyoka noted that surveys conducted by the agency reveal that many adaptors, sockets, and extension cables currently available in local markets fail to meet safety standards, posing risks such as electric shocks and fire hazards.

“Our ongoing efforts to seize and withdraw non-compliant products from the market are crucial for safeguarding the public,” Hatyoka remarked.

To address these concerns, Hatyoka said ZCSA has intensified market surveillance, including recent actions that led to the disposal of non-compliant maize meal valued at K1,480 in Eastern Province.

Eastern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Dr. Lewis Mwape underscored the critical need for compliance with compulsory product standards to elevate the quality of manufactured goods and bolster local industries.

This initiative aims to drive economic growth and ensure that Zambian products meet both domestic and international market expectations.

Dr. Mwape affirmed the government's commitment to advancing manufacturing as a vital component of economic development.

"By ensuring our products align with the required standards, certified by institutions like the Zambia Bureau of Standards, we can broaden our market access," he stated.

This focus is particularly essential as Zambia looks to enhance its export capabilities, especially in markets such as the European Union.

He acknowledged that failure to adhere to quality standards often results in substantial losses for producers.

"When manufacturers create products that do not meet established standards, it signifies a significant setback. Therefore, maintaining quality throughout the production process is crucial," he emphasized.

To tackle these issues, Dr. Mwape called for the decentralization of standards compliance efforts, urging regulatory agencies to increase their outreach across all districts.

"Regular inspections of manufacturers will help ensure adherence to quality benchmarks," he explained.

Moreover, he highlighted the importance of improved collaboration among stakeholders, including those receiving grants from the Central Bank of Zambia and the producers themselves.

"Products must consistently meet the specifications set by the Zambia Bureau of Standards," he stressed.

This cooperative strategy seeks to build consumer confidence in Zambian products and promote the "Buy Zambian" initiative. Dr. Mwape reiterated that effective quality assurance is essential for gaining public trust.

In line with the government's plan to stimulate local manufacturing, he announced upcoming initiatives in the agricultural sector and encouraged stakeholders to adopt a constructive approach.

"The government is dedicated to facilitating trade and manufacturing. It is vital for our institutions to support rather than obstruct progress," he concluded.

By emphasizing compliance with product standards, Zambia could take significant strides toward a robust manufacturing sector, ensuring its products successfully compete in the global marketplace.

ZCSA oversees 61 products across various categories, including food, beverages, chemicals, and household electrical appliances.

This year, the agency plans to increase the number of compulsory standards by an additional 41, focusing on packaging materials, solar products, and fertilizers.

ZCSA's regional offices in Chipata, Mwami/Mchinji border, and Chanida border play a vital role in inspecting and testing both locally manufactured and imported products.

Currently, there are 24 active establishments registered in Eastern Province, all monitored closely to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Hatyoka urged local manufacturers and the business community to engage with ZCSA early in their production processes to ensure they meet regulatory requirements.

“This proactive approach will enhance product safety and improve market access domestically and internationally,” he said.

In conclusion, Hatyoka appealed for support from local authorities and the community in promoting the production and consumption of safe products.

“Together, we can protect public health and ensure that consumers have access to safe, compliant products in the market,” he affirmed.

The ZCSA remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the well-being of the Zambian populace through its mandate.