Nkobeni Elevates Zambia Globally


Zambia Metrology Agency CEO appointed to CIML Presidential Council, strengthening Zambia’s leadership in international measurement standards

By Francis Maingaila
Lusaka, Zambia – 21 October 2025 – Zambia has reinforced its global presence following the appointment of Mr. Humphrey Nkobeni, Executive Director and CEO of the Zambia Metrology Agency (ZMA), to the Presidential Council of the International Committee of Legal Metrology (CIML).

CIML President Dr. Bobjoseph Mathew confirmed the appointment. 

Nkobeni joins a select group of experts who advise on global metrology policies, strategy, finance, and coordination. 

He will serve a three-year renewable term. In this role, he will influence decisions that set measurement standards vital for fair trade and industrial development.

ZMA Board Chairperson Mr. Musamala J. Nyirongo described the appointment as “a proud moment for Zambia and Africa.” He said it positions the country as a key partner in global metrology governance. 

“This recognition reflects the leadership Mr. Nkobeni has shown at ZMA and confirms Zambia’s credibility in international measurement systems,” Nyirongo added.

Under Nkobeni’s leadership, ZMA—established under the Metrology Act No. 6 of 2017 and operating under the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry (MCTI)—has recorded significant milestones. Between 2021 and 2024, non-tax revenue grew by over 79%. 

Verification coverage of regulated instruments increased by 91%, and compliance of prepackaged commodities improved from 93% to 96%.

These achievements strengthened Zambia’s National Quality Infrastructure (NQI) and ensured full traceability to the International System of Units (SI). 

Sectors such as energy, mining, agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare have benefited directly from these improvements.

Nkobeni also holds important regional and international roles. He is Vice President of the Intra-Africa Metrology System (AFRIMETS), Chairperson for Legal Metrology under AFRIMETS, Chairperson of SADC Cooperation in Legal Metrology (SADCMEL), and Management Committee Member of the OIML Certification System (OIML-CS). 

He is the only African leader on the CIML Presidential Council, highlighting Zambia’s growing influence in global measurement harmonization.

A multidisciplinary professional with over 20 years of experience, Nkobeni holds advanced degrees in Engineering (MEng), Business Administration (MBA), Law (LLM and LLB), and Science (BSc).

The ZMA Board said the appointment confirms Zambia’s technical leadership in legal metrology and strengthens Africa’s voice in international measurement standards. 

“His role on the CIML Presidential Council strengthens Zambia’s influence in promoting fair trade, consumer protection, and sustainable industrialization,” Nyirongo said.

ZMA intends to leverage this milestone to expand partnerships and further enhance national measurement systems. This move will support Zambia’s broader economic transformation agenda.

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