Today marks a truly historic milestone in the partnership between the Zambia Metrology Agency (ZMA) and the Weights and Measures Agency (WMA) of the United Republic of Tanzania.
The signing of the Mutual Recognition Framework Agreement was officially officiated by the Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Hon. Chipoka Mulenga, MP. In his remarks, the Minister emphasized that “this collaboration between ZMA and WMA is both strategic and timely, particularly in high-value sectors such as petroleum where accuracy, trust, and regulatory certainty are essential.”
This landmark Agreement seeks to:
• Strengthen bilateral cooperation in legal metrology
• Facilitate mutual recognition of measurements and test results
• Enhance technical collaboration between the two agencies
• Improve regulatory efficiency and promote consumer protection
Speaking during the event, the Tanzanian Ambassador to Zambia, His Excellency Lieutenant General Matthew Edward Mkingule, commended both ZMA and WMA for advancing bilateral cooperation and facilitating this historic agreement that strengthens ties between the two nations.
ZMA Board Chairperson, Mr. Musamala J. Nyirongo, highlighted that the Agreement is anchored on deepening cooperation between the two institutions, particularly in the petroleum subsector, a critical economic artery for both countries. He noted that “accurate measurement is both an economic tool and a governance imperative a central pillar of this Mutual Recognition Framework.”
ZMA Executive Director, Mr. Humphrey Nkobeni, further stated that the Agreement addresses one of the most important pillars of modern trade: accurate, trusted, and internationally aligned measurement systems. He added that for industries, transporters, and consumers, this milestone represents reduced compliance burdens, faster processes, and stronger credibility of measurement results across borders.
Chairperson of the WMA Board, Professor Eliza Alfred Mwakasangula, noted that this achievement marks a significant step towards strengthening measurement systems, promoting fair trade, and deepening regional integration. She emphasized that while Zambia and Tanzania have long shared borders, trade corridors, and cultural ties, “today we add yet another pillar a structured and mutual collaboration in legal metrology.”
WMA Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Alban Mark Kihula, underscored that legal metrology plays a vital role in every transaction that involves trust. “Through this Agreement, we take a bold step to ensure that such trust is recognized and upheld across borders,” he said.
This signing sets the foundation for enhanced cooperation, improved trade facilitation, and stronger regional integration built upon accurate, reliable, and mutually recognized measurement systems.
