Ensuring Road Safety

.....ZCSA and ZMDA Collaborate on Vehicle Import Standards

By Francis Maingaila

Lusaka, Zambia 24 - (March 30, 2025) - The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) and the Zambia Motor Dealers Association (ZMDA) have announced a collaborative effort aimed at improving the safety of used motor vehicles imported into Zambia.

This partnership will focus on enforcing the Zambian Standard ZS 560, which mandates pre-shipment inspections to ensure the roadworthiness of used vehicles before they are allowed into the country.

Brian Hatyoka, Manager of Communications and Public Relations at ZCSA, stressed the significance of the initiative, stating, "The pre-shipment inspection process is a vital step in guaranteeing that only safe, roadworthy vehicles make it to Zambia. This directly impacts public safety and consumer protection."

Tafuna Mumba Phiri, ZCSA’s Director of Legal and Compliance, underscored the importance of collaboration between the two organizations during a stakeholder meeting in Lusaka.

"We are committed to ensuring that all importers comply with the Zambian Standard ZS 560 to prevent the entry of unsafe vehicles, which could pose significant risks to public health and safety," she remarked.

Kelvin Kameta, Chairperson of ZMDA, also emphasized the role of the association in supporting the initiative.

"We are dedicated to working alongside ZCSA to ensure that all motor vehicle importers understand the importance of adhering to safety standards. Educating our members about these requirements is crucial to protecting both consumers and the integrity of the industry," Kameta said.

This collaboration comes at a crucial time as Zambia continues to rely heavily on the importation of used motor vehicles, many of which pose potential safety risks.

Hatyoka explained, "Through these efforts, ZCSA and ZMDA are collaborating to ensure that only vehicles meeting stringent safety standards are permitted on the road, ultimately safeguarding consumers and the broader community."

To further promote compliance, Hatyoka said ZCSA has ramped up its public education campaigns.

A roadshow is scheduled for April 2, 2025, at Kashumba Market in Mongu, where the public will be educated about the importance of vehicle safety and the risks of importing unsafe vehicles.

Hatyoka concluded, "This partnership marks a decisive step forward in addressing the risks associated with the importation of unsafe used motor vehicles.

"We are working together to ensure that only vehicles that meet safety regulations are allowed on the road, contributing to the well-being of consumers and the broader community," he added.