Minister of Industry and Commerce Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndhlovu in red necktie (File Photo)
By George Swarei
Highlighting the pivotal role of standardization in driving economic growth and sustainable development, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Industry and Commerce Nqobizitha M Ndhlovu, emphasized the transformative power of standardized practices at the 2024 Standardization and Business Leaders’ Conference held at the Elephant Hills Hotel in Victoria Falls on May 30th, 2024.
Joined by a distinguished audience including the Mayor of Victoria Falls, industry experts, government officials, and media representatives, Hon. Ndhlovu highlighted the critical role of standardization in navigating the challenges posed by rapid technological advancements, climate change, and evolving global market dynamics.
Under the theme “Standardization Revolution: Transforming Industry and Consumer Thinking for Sustainable Development,” participants delved into the necessity of adopting standards to enhance productivity, ensure quality, and facilitate trade both regionally and internationally. The minister underscored the alignment of this theme with Zimbabwe’s national vision of attaining Upper Middle-Income status by 2030.
Key to Zimbabwe’s economic growth strategy is the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which presents vast opportunities for intra-African trade and industrial development. Hon. Ndhlovu emphasized the importance of adopting standards to meet the demands of regional and international markets, enhancing the country’s competitiveness and image.
During the conference, significant bilateral agreements were announced, including the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ) and the Zambia Bureau of Standards (ZABS). Such collaborations are vital in bolstering trade and economic development among African nations.
The minister also stressed the need for inclusivity and collaboration in standardization efforts, involving stakeholders such as small and medium enterprises, regulators, consumers, and academia. He highlighted the importance of engaging youth in standardization initiatives, ensuring a sustainable legacy for future generations.
Furthermore, Hon. Ndhlovu detailed the implementation of the Consignment-Based Conformity Assessment Programme, aimed at reducing the importation of sub-standard products and ensuring consumer safety and environmental protection.
The minister commended the Standards Association of Zimbabwe for successfully hosting the conference and urged attendees to leverage the power of standardization for industry transformation and sustainable development. As delegates dispersed, they were encouraged to explore the natural beauty of Zimbabwe, particularly the iconic Victoria Falls, a testament to the country’s allure beyond its economic endeavors.
The 2024 Standardization and Business Leaders’ Conference concluded with a resounding call to action, resonating with the collective commitment to harness standardization as a catalyst for progress and prosperity in Zimbabwe and across Africa.
