By Business Reporter
Standards where viewed as a pillar for sustainable development at the commemorations of the World Standards Sayin Harare today by the Minister of Industry and Commerce, Mangaliso Ndlovu in Harare today.
The commemorations which were attended by the International Organisation for Standardization (ISO) Secretary General- Mr. Mujica, Egyptian Ambassador Her Excellency Salwa Mowafi, Standards Association of Zimbabwe, SAZ delegates among other key industrial players.Standards where viewed as a cog in establishing the highest level of operational capacity while calling for development of infrastructure compatible the highest expected standards.
“Standards are the backbone of our industry ensuring that we meet the highest levels of quality, safety and efficiency especially now as we create a single and unified market under the Africa Continental Free Trade Area.” The Minister of Industry and Commerce, Mangaliso Ndlovu said.
Ndlovu also added that, “Looking ahead, our focus will be on strengthening our national quality infrastructure, through prioritizing the implementation of compulsory standards as contained in the Country’s National Quality Policy.”
The Minister called for unity in devising a shared vision in standards development while informing of government’s plan to streamline environmental standards management as a spring board to efficient environmental social governance.
” I would like to advocate that we work together as government, industry, communities and our youths (Next Generation) to develop and implement standards that reflect a shared vision.”
Furthermore, “I am informed there will be a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Signing Ceremony between SAZ and the Institute of Chartered Accountancy Zimbabwe to improve Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) reporting through the support of Managements System Standards.” Ndlovu also announced.
Standards where viewed as a pillar for sustainable development. ” By embracing standards, we can achieve SDG 9 on “Fostering innovation, building resilient infrastructure and promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization” and thus create a future that is resilient, inclusive, and sustainable.” Ndlovu also hinted.
This year’s commemorations are being held under the theme, ‘Shared Vision for a Better World, focusing on Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG9).’ –“Fostering innovation, building resilient infrastructure and promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization”.