The Malawi Bureau of Standards (MBS) has called on local experts and stakeholders to actively participate in the development of international standards to enhance conformity and advance Malawi’s interests on the global stage.
Addressing delegates at the launch of a series of ISO/ CASCO stakeholder engagement programs in Blantyre on Monday, MBS Director General Bernard Thole emphasised the importance of local involvement in conformity assessment committees.
The programme aims to raise awareness among stakeholders about conformity assessment—activities that ensure products, services, individuals, and organisations meet specified international requirements as outlined by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
He stressed the need for local industry experts to join technical committees, thereby ensuring Malawi’s interests are represented and promoting a common language across industries.
Speaking on the sidelines, MBS Director of Quality Assurance Gloria Chaonamwene Meleka said Malawi’s quality infrastructure remains at a low position due to limited participation in international conformity assessment bodies.
“This is a challenge for Malawi. As a result, many of our products and services struggle to gain acceptance internationally. Greater involvement in conformity assessment bodies will help open up markets for Malawi,” Meleka said.
Meleka said the awareness of conformity assessment bodies will lead to establishment of the conformity assessment committee for Malawi that mirrors the ISO structures.
Senior Lecturer and Head of the Department of Foundation Sciences at Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Victor Ndhlovu, said the engagement was very important to assess activities from the industry.
