No Scale, No Sale

.... ZMA bans uncertified equipment to protect farmers from fraud.

By Francis Maingaila ♥️

Lusaka, Zambia24 – (21-05-2025) - The Zambia Metrology Agency (ZMA) has urged farmers not to sell their maize to buyers who do not use ZMA-certified weighing scales. This strong stance is part of a Measurement Oversight strategy aimed at shielding farmers from exploitation by unscrupulous briefcase buyers during the 2024/2025 grain marketing season.

ZMA Board Chairperson, Musamala Nyirongo, told journalists at a media briefing that all weighing scales intended for use this season have been successfully verified. The move is expected to ensure fairness and transparency in grain trade.

Nyirongo emphasized ZMA’s critical role in enhancing industrial competitiveness, protecting consumers, and promoting fair trade through accurate measurement enforcement.

“I am pleased to report that no formal complaints have been recorded from farmers regarding the quantity of input supplies this season,” he said.

“This is a clear testament to the effectiveness of our interventions and the willingness of stakeholders to comply with regulatory standards.”

The announcement comes after a nationwide inspection of agricultural inputs—including fertilizers, seeds, and chemicals—conducted by ZMA in collaboration with key stakeholders such as the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, the Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency, and the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC).

Inspections were conducted at manufacturer and importer warehouses as well as at district distribution points under the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP).

The goal was to prevent the distribution of substandard and underweight inputs, ensuring farmers receive full value and contributing to national food security.

ZMA has now verified all trade scales to be used by the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) and private buyers, ensuring that only accurate and certified equipment is used in grain purchases.

“This effort guarantees fair compensation for farmers, value for money for buyers, and prevents fraud and trade disputes caused by inaccurate weighing,” he said. “Only verified and approved weighing scales will be permitted during this marketing season.”

He warned that ZMA will not hesitate to take enforcement action against traders using unverified or tampered weighing equipment. Sanctions may include the seizure of instruments, fines, or legal prosecution.

Nyirongo commended the government and all partner agencies for their continued support and called for collective responsibility in upholding measurement integrity and trade fairness.

“This is not just a legal requirement under the Metrology Act No. 6 of 2017, but a crucial step toward protecting our economy and safeguarding the livelihoods of our farmers,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, Food Reserve Agency (FRA) Executive Director Justin Chuunka has commended the Zambia Metrology Agency for its vital support in ensuring accurate stock certification and accountability in the procurement and storage of grain.

Speaking during the same briefing, Chuunka described the scale certification process as a critical component of FRA operations, particularly as the agency engages in large-scale procurement of maize and other grains from smallholder farmers.

"We really want to thank the Zambia Metrology Agency for taking the time to assist us with scale certification," Chuunka said.

"This process is essential to ensure that what we buy from the farmers is exactly what we receive at our storage depots."

Chuunka explained that without proper scale calibration, the FRA would face serious challenges in accounting for stock, potentially leading to discrepancies and losses.

"The use of certified weighing scales helps us ensure transparency and accuracy throughout our supply chain. It allows us to reconcile what is bought from farmers with what is delivered to and received at the storage facilities," he said.

He emphasized that certified scales offer both the FRA and suppliers assurance that the correct quantities are being transacted, thereby avoiding disputes and supporting proper record-keeping.

"We use these assessments as a key control mechanism. They give us confidence in the value and volume of stock we're managing. This not only strengthens our internal accountability systems but also improves our reputation with stakeholders," he added.

Chuunka reiterated FRA's commitment to maintaining high standards in grain handling and procurement, noting that the scale certification process is now a prerequisite before any marketing or distribution activities commence.

"The certification gives both parties — the FRA and the suppliers — confidence that the transaction is fair. We thank the Zambia Metrology Agency for partnering with us in this important exercise," he said.

He concluded by saying the agency is now better positioned to facilitate a well-regulated grain market, with improved stock management systems in place thanks to this collaboration.