Industry and Commerce Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu has underscored the central role of quality standards in driving Zimbabwe’s industrial competitiveness, export growth and regional integration.
In a speech read on his behalf by permanent secretary, Dr Thomas Utete Wushe, at the 2025 National Annual Quality Awards in Harare on Tuesday, the minister said the Government was spearheading efforts to strengthen the country’s quality infrastructure to align local standards with international benchmarks.
“My ministry is collaborating with the Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ) to align Zimbabwean standards with international best practices, ensuring that our products and services fulfil the expectations of global consumers,” he said.
He added that harmonising standards at both regional and continental levels was critical to “reducing trade barriers and unlocking new markets, reaffirming commitment to regional integration”.
The minister said this year’s National Annual Quality Awards symbolise the country’s heightened commitment to excellence, and the celebrations signify the importance of quality.
He added that many of the winners will represent Zimbabwe at the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) annual quality awards 2026 in March.
“We reaffirm our dedication to enhancing export competitiveness; quality serves not only as a domestic benchmark but also as our gateway to regional and international markets,” Minister Ndlovu said.
The minister also highlighted that standards were not merely technical documents; they are strategic tools for market access, innovation, and consumer protection, as well as policy tools that shape the country’s regulatory frameworks.
“When our industries adhere to high standards, they are not just following rules; they are speaking a universal language of quality that opens doors and builds reputations.
“The companies we celebrate tonight understand this deeply; they have moved beyond compliance to embracing standards as a core component of their business strategy,” he said.
Minister Ndlovu also emphasised that the dedication to quality was more important than ever, especially now as the country is currently transitioning from the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS 1) to NDS 2.
He said NDS 1 established a solid foundation by emphasising the stabilisation of the economy and the construction of critical infrastructure.
“The private sector, including companies represented here, played a critical role in that endeavour. We observed a renewed emphasis on value addition, increased capacity utilisation, and growth in local content,” said the minister.
He added, “NDS 2 encourages us to pursue greater objectives and aims to establish a prosperous and empowered upper middle-income society by 2030.”
In terms of the awards, Delta Corporation dominated, winning three categories for its Chibuku business.
The company’s Chibuku Super won the Product of The Year category, and the sorghum beer business was The First Runner-up in the exporter of the year category, and the business was also the Second Runner-up under the company of the year.
Dinson Iron and Steel Company was the inner of the Exporter of The Year category, while Irvines Chickens won the Company of The Year category.
The Service of the Year category was won by Tobacco Processors Zimbabwe, Bak Logistics was The Second Runner-up, and Zimvet Laboratories was the 1st Runner-up in that category.
SAZ director general Mr Cosmus Mukoyi said the awards strengthen the SAZ brand globally, and the next generation award supports standardisation activities beyond the borders and ensures Zimbabwe’s voice is heard and amplified.
“When an organisation implements standards, it is not preparing for an award. It is enhancing productivity, reducing waste and unlocking new markets. It is making the strategic decision to be here next year and for the next decade. The companies we are celebrating tonight are a living proof of that strategic advantage,” he said.
He added that SAZ as the National Standards Body, is more than standards development, but a strategic partner and is committed to developing standards that are forward-looking, ensuring that industries are not just ready for the future but are helping to shape it.
Mr Mukoyi said SAZ also enhances access and inclusivity through simplifying processes (Maturity Model) and digitising services. “We believe that quality must be a ladder for all and not a barrier,” he said.
Small and medium enterprises were also awarded, and Integrated Properties won the Company of The Year category for small enterprises, and Woodlot Timbers Private Limited was the 1st Runner-up.
Oswell Security Private Limited was the winner for the Service of The Year category for small enterprises, and the Zimbabwe School of Mines was the Runner-up.-herald
