Nationwide Drive for Safer Goods

ZCSA-ZNBC Alliance to Educate Citizens on Compulsory Standards

By Francis Maingaila ♥️

Lusaka, Zambia24 – (02-09-2025) – The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) has called for stronger collaboration with the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) to protect Zambians from unsafe and substandard products, safeguard the environment, and raise public awareness on the importance of compliance with compulsory standards.

ZCSA Executive Director, Gerald Chizinga, said the partnership aims to simplify technical information and educate citizens in clear and relatable terms.

He emphasized that ZNBC, as the nation’s primary broadcaster, is “a vital voice and the mirror of the nation,” capable of reaching millions of households daily through its radio and television platforms, including programmes delivered in local languages.

Mr. Chizinga made the remarks during a courtesy call on ZNBC Director General, Berry Lwando, in Lusaka. 

A statement later posted on the ZCSA Facebook page reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to working with ZNBC in strengthening consumer protection and promoting environmentally safe practices.

The discussions centered on enhancing public understanding of the 41 new compulsory standards recently declared mandatory.

On May 9, 2025, the Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry issued Statutory Instrument (SI) No. 20 of 2025, which added 41 new standards to the existing list, bringing the total to 102. 

These standards apply to both locally manufactured and imported goods and cover a wide range of products, including solar devices, food and beverages, table wines, energy drinks, packaging materials, fertilizers, construction inputs, and other essential items.

Mr. Chizinga stressed that public awareness of these standards is not merely educational but an urgent protective measure.

“Unsafe products threaten public health, compromise consumer rights, and damage the environment. Our collaboration with ZNBC is vital to ensure Zambians understand these risks and are equipped to make informed decisions,” he said.

He further explained that substandard products not only endanger consumers but also distort fair competition and hinder economic growth. With ZNBC’s extensive coverage, he said, the campaign will empower citizens with the knowledge needed to demand safe, quality products.

The partnership will involve targeted radio and television programmes designed to explain the new standards in simple, practical language. Local language broadcasts will play a central role in ensuring communities across the country, especially in rural areas, understand and appreciate the importance of compliance.

“Your platforms reach millions of Zambians daily, in both English and local languages. This reach is a national asset, and we want to harness it to protect consumers and the environment,” Mr. Chizinga said.

He also disclosed that ZCSA has already translated key safety messages into several local languages to ensure inclusivity.

In addition, he invited journalists to participate in ZCSA’s 3rd Annual Media Awards, scheduled for the first week of November 2025, as a way of strengthening media involvement in consumer safety advocacy.

ZNBC Director General, Berry Lwando, welcomed the partnership, noting that the broadcaster has diverse platforms—ranging from radio to television—that can be used to educate the public.

He encouraged ZCSA to continue embracing local languages to effectively reach both urban and rural citizens.

“We look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship with ZCSA that prioritizes the safety and well-being of citizens. Together, we can create a win-win situation where the public is informed, protected, and empowered,” Mr. Lwando said.

ZNBC management has since pledged its commitment to the initiative, confirming that the broadcaster will dedicate airtime to programmes, documentaries, and discussions aimed at promoting compliance and consumer safety.

Mr. Chizinga was accompanied by ZCSA Manager – Communications and Public Relations, Brian Hatyoka, and Public Relations Officer, Onishias Maamba.

ZCSA, a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, is mandated by the Compulsory Standards Act No. 3 of 2017 to administer, maintain, and enforce compulsory standards. Its mission is to protect public health, consumer rights, and the environment from unsafe goods and practices.

The collaboration between ZCSA and ZNBC is expected to strengthen consumer protection systems, boost confidence in products on the market, and contribute to safer communities across Zambia