Niël Terblanché
The Namibian Standards Institution (NSI) marked its 15th anniversary on Monday with a celebration in Windhoek, coinciding with World Metrology Day.
The event stressed the crucial role of measurement in both global and local contexts and highlighted NSI’s dedication to enhancing Namibia’s national quality infrastructure over the past 15 years.
Paul Kalenga, Chairperson of the Namibian Standards Council, opened the event, setting a tone of reflection, celebration, and strategic planning for the future.
A significant highlight was the launch of the NSI’s Integrated Strategic Business Plan (ISBP) for 2024-2028, designed to guide the institution’s efforts in the coming years.
This launch coincided with the commencement of the Metrology Act, 2022, and the global commemoration of World Metrology Day on 20 May.
Key presentations during the event came from NSI executives, including Jekonia Haufiku, General Manager of Standards Development and Coordination; Paloma Ellitson, General Manager of Testing and Inspection; Simasiku Matali, Head of Metrology; and Etuukata Nashima, General Manager of Certification.
Their symposium detailed NSI’s journey of strengthening the National Quality Infrastructure through standardisation and conformity assessment, crucial for ensuring Namibia’s products and services meet international standards and enhance the country’s competitiveness.
Industry representatives, including those from the Southern African Development Community Accreditation Services (SADCAS), the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Etosha Fishing Corporation (Pty) Ltd, Merlus Seafood Processors (Pty) Ltd, the Namibian Agronomic Board (NAB), Roads Authority Namibia, Ohorongo Cement (Pty) Ltd, and Whale Rock Cement (Pty) Ltd, also shared insights on the value of standardisation for their businesses.
Their testimonials highlighted the tangible benefits of NSI’s standards and conformity assessments in ensuring product quality, safety, and market access.
Dr Eino Mvula, Chief Executive Officer of NSI, presented an overview of the future direction of NSI, focusing on the 2024-2028 ISBP.
His presentation outlined strategic goals aimed at enhancing NSI’s capabilities and expanding its services to support Namibia’s economic development.
Dr Mvula stressed the importance of continuous improvement and innovation in maintaining the relevance and effectiveness of the National Quality Infrastructure.
The keynote address was delivered by the Lucia Iipumbu, the Minister of Industrialisation and Trade.
In her address she reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the NSI’s initiatives and stressed the significance of metrology in everyday life, from ensuring accurate measurements in trade and healthcare to enhancing consumer safety and environmental protection.
Iipumbu reflected on Namibia’s progress since independence, including the formulation and implementation of the first National Quality Policy in 1999 and the establishment of the NSI in 2008.
She praised the NSI for its achievements despite various challenges and highlighted its role in ensuring quality, safety, and innovation in Namibian products and services, thereby contributing to sustainable economic growth and development.
She noted that the Revised National Quality Policy (NQP) 2020 to 2025, launched in April 2021, emphasizes the need to develop and strengthen Namibia’s National Quality Infrastructure in line with international best practices.
She also mentioned the successful awareness campaign for the Metrology Act, 2022, which underscores the expanded mandate of metrology to include measurements in health, safety, and the environment.
In her concluding remarks, Matilda Jankie, Vice Chairperson of the Namibian Standards Council, extended heartfelt appreciation to all stakeholders and reaffirmed the Council’s support for NSI’s mission.
She emphasized the critical role of metrology in ensuring reliable and consistent measurements, which are vital for quality assurance and consumer protection.
