Victoria Falls-The Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ) has received plaudits from Government for taking a lead in complementing its efforts in building brand Zimbabwe by ensuring checks the country produces quality goods.
The applauses were given to SAZ, by the Minister of Industry and International Trade, Honourable Mangaliso Ndlovu as he delivered his speech to delegates at the 2024 Standardisation and Business Conference in Victoria Falls. This year’s conference is being held under the theme:’ Standardization Revolution: Transforming Industry and Consumer Thinking for Sustainable Development’.
“I am happy that the Standards Association of Zimbabwe is taking a step forward to support government efforts through bilateral agreements. I am pleased to witness the MoU signing ceremony between the Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ) and the Zambian Bureau of Standards (ZABS). It is these collaborative efforts that strengthen trade, supporting economic growth and development,” he said.
The MoU by SAZ and their counterparts from Zambia is coming hard on the heels of another one MoU signed between Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ) and the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) at the just-ended Zimbabwe International Trade Fair as the Association moves to align itself with continental standards ensuring the country fully exploits opportunities that will be coming with the Africa Continental Free Trade Area.
“This agreement presents immense opportunities for Zimbabwe and our fellow African nations, to unlock economic potential, increase intra-African trade, and boost industrial development. For Zimbabwe, it is imperative that we adopt standards, boost the productive capacity of our industries, and manufacture products that are acceptable in regional and international export markets.”
The Minister also said the production of quality goods and services that meet the needs of an empowered consumer goes a long way toward improving the country’s image and competitiveness on both the domestic and international markets, commending SAZ for putting in place mechanisms to ensure that is achieved.