PPP to Transform Zambia Standards Sector



ZABS and ACIA sign agreement to strengthen certification, boost exports, and support industrial growth

By Francis Maingaila
Lusaka, Zambia24  -- (14-05-2026) -- The Zambia Bureau of Standards (ZABS) and the African Certification Inspection Agency (ACIA) Zambia Limited have signed a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Agreement aimed at transforming Zambia’s standards and certification sector to boost exports, industrialisation and job creation.

According to a statement issued by ZABS Senior Communications Officer Ms. Lupiya Mazunda, the agreement was signed at the Ministry of Finance and National Planning headquarters in Lusaka during a ceremony officiated by Finance and National Planning Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane.


Dr. Musokotwane said the partnership will help Zambian products compete better in export markets by improving compliance with recognised standards.

He said it will also support economic growth, job creation and the goals of the Eighth National Development Plan.

Commerce Minister Mr. Mulenga said the agreement reflects government’s commitment to industrialisation and consumer protection.

He said it will strengthen standards, testing and certification systems through new laboratories, equipment and staff training at ZABS.


ZABS Executive Director Mr. Nathan Sing’ambwa said the partnership will modernise systems and improve service delivery by leveraging private sector expertise and investment.

ACIA Zambia Chief Executive Officer Mr. Andile Ramaphosa said the agreement demonstrates Zambia’s commitment to international standards and industrial competitiveness.

He said ACIA will also support local skills development and capacity building.

The partnership is expected to boost exports, improve trade efficiency, reduce reliance on foreign testing facilities and increase investor confidence in Zambia’s quality assurance systems.

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