Handover at SAZ Laboratories strengthens food safety, quality assurance, and laboratory testing capacity.

The Standards Association of Zimbabwe and the World Food Programme held an equipment handover and commissioning ceremony at SAZ Laboratories, 17 Coventry Road, Workington, Harare, on 8 July 2026, marking the formal transfer of laboratory equipment donated by World Food Programme to strengthen food safety, quality assurance, and testing capacity in Zimbabwe. 

The equipment donated by World Food Programme was handed over under a Transfer of Ownership Agreement and includes an Anton Paar Multiwave 3001 Microwave Digestion System and a Brabender Break Mill SM4 Laboratory Grinding Mill. The instruments will support laboratory testing, sample preparation, and quality assurance functions for food, agricultural, environmental, and related applications. 

The ceremony brought together WFP Zimbabwe Country Representative and Director Barbara Clemens, SAZ Director General Cosmus Mukoyi, government representatives, development partners, stakeholders, and members of the media. Ms Chikuvanyanga, representing the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, also attended. 

The programme included remarks by SAZ and WFP, the formal signing of the Transfer of Ownership Agreement, a tour of SAZ facilities, ribbon cutting, and a media engagement session. 

Speaking at the ceremony, WFP Zimbabwe Country Representative and Director Barbara Clemens said the handover of laboratory equipment represented an investment in national capacity. 

Ms Clemens commended SAZ for its strong partnership with WFP and for its vital role in safeguarding the quality and safety of products in Zimbabwe. She said SAZ’s work in standards development, certification, testing, and quality assurance contributes significantly to protecting consumers, supporting trade, and strengthening confidence in Zimbabwean products. 

“Food safety is a cornerstone of food security. It is not enough for food to be available; it must also be safe, nutritious and of good quality,” Country Director Clemens said, adding that unsafe food can have serious consequences for public health, livelihoods, and economic development. 

The Country Director also said that the Brabender Break Mill SM4 Laboratory Grinding Mill and Anton Paar Multiwave 3001 Microwave Digestion System being transferred to SAZ would enhance laboratory capabilities and support a wide range of testing processes related to food and agricultural products. The equipment, she noted, would strengthen SAZ’s ability to conduct analyses that are critical for ensuring food quality, compliance with standards, and consumer protection. 

She said the broader goal was to build lasting national capacity by supporting Zimbabwe in developing the systems, institutions, and technical expertise needed to deliver high-quality testing and food safety assurance for years to come. 

She also emphasized the importance of partnerships in strengthening food systems, saying no single organization can address complex challenges alone. Clemens said the agreement reflected collaboration among government, technical institutions, the private sector, development partners, and communities. 

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, SAZ Director General Cosmus Mukoyi said the occasion was “more than a handover of equipment,” describing it as “a practical demonstration of partnership, shared responsibility, and a common commitment to strengthening national systems that protect consumers, support industry, and contribute to Zimbabwe’s food security and quality infrastructure.” 

Mr. Mukoyi expressed appreciation to the World Food Programme Zimbabwe Country Office for its “generous and strategic support,” saying the contribution would expand SAZ’s ability to provide reliable laboratory testing services in areas critical to food quality, safety, and market confidence. 

He said the signing of the Transfer of Ownership Agreement confirmed SAZ’s responsibility to use, maintain, and safeguard the equipment in line with its intended purpose and accepted the responsibility with seriousness and gratitude, adding that equipment of this nature must be “put to productive use, maintained properly, and integrated into service delivery for the benefit of Zimbabwean industry and communities.” 

The Director General also emphasized the close connection between standards and food security. “A resilient food system requires more than production; it also requires assurance that food products meet established quality and safety requirements,” he said, noting that credible testing systems support evidence-based decisions, consumer protection, trade facilitation, and confidence across value chains. 

From a technical perspective, the new equipment addresses limitations associated with conventional digestion techniques such as muffle furnace ashing and hot plate digestion, which, while effective, required longer processing times and involved multiple handling steps. 

By streamlining sample preparation for trace and heavy metal testing, the microwave digestion system will complement existing analytical instruments, reduce turnaround times, and enable the Chemical, Food and Technology Laboratory to accommodate a broader range of sample matrices. This will allow SAZ to respond more effectively to the evolving needs of clients across multiple sectors. 

The equipment is expected to strengthen service delivery, regulatory compliance, and innovation by increasing testing capacity and improving access to high-quality analytical services. The microwave digestion system is also expected to support national priorities, including the Food Fortification Programme through trace element analysis, as well as the implementation of requirements relating to lead in paints. 

The equipment will further expand the laboratory’s ability to analyse soil samples for the agricultural sector and provide analytical support to universities, researchers, manufacturers, and other stakeholders developing innovative products. 

In relation to food safety, quality, and standards compliance, the new equipment will help manufacturers demonstrate compliance with national and international standards, strengthen regulatory monitoring, and support the identification of contaminants that may pose risks to consumer health. 

It is also expected to contribute to safer products, increased consumer confidence, and improved market access for businesses. 

SAZ remains committed to working with stakeholders to deliver reliable testing services that support industry, protect consumers, assist regulators, and contribute to national development priorities. 

The donation by World Food Programme underscores the importance of strategic partnerships in strengthening Zimbabwe’s quality infrastructure, enhancing local testing capacity, and supporting safer food systems. Through the donated equipment, SAZ is better positioned to provide reliable analytical services that protect consumers, support industry, promote standards compliance, and contribute to national development. 

The Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ) presented prizes to the national winners of the 13th ARSO Continental Essay Competition on June 10, 2026, recognizing exceptional writing, intellectual engagement, and commitment to Africa’s development agenda. The ceremony not only honored outstanding student achievement but also highlighted the importance of providing young people with a platform to reflect on standards, trade, and regional integration through academic inquiry.

Organized by the African Organisation for Standardization in collaboration with National Standards Bodies, the Continental Essay Competition continues to serve as an important platform for raising awareness among students about standards and trade facilitation. Established in 1977 by the African Union and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, ARSO plays a central role in promoting the harmonization of African standards and advancing regional integration. Through the competition, students are encouraged to engage with policy issues and contribute ideas that support industrialization, competitiveness, and sustainable development across the continent. 

The 2025 competition was held under the theme, “The role of harmonized standards in reducing Technical Barriers to Trade and in promoting fair and just trade within intra-African and global trade.” The theme invited students to examine how harmonized standards can reduce non-tariff barriers, strengthen value chains, and support the effective implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area. It also highlighted the need to build a more inclusive and equitable trading environment for African enterprises, particularly micro, small, and medium-sized businesses. 

The ceremony celebrated the achievements of students from universities and colleges across Zimbabwe. Chido Thandeka Audrey Munyaka of Midlands State University was recognized as the national winner and received USD 200.00 and a standards-based training course valued at USD 355.00. Rejoice Phiri of the University of South Africa was named first runner-up and received USD 150.00 and a standards-based training course valued at USD 355.00. Bridget Tanatswa Munyanyi of the University of Zimbabwe and Kudzai Suzan Chironga of Harare Institute of Technology were jointly placed as second runners-up and each received USD 100.00 and a standards-based training course valued at USD 355.00. 

Certificates of participation were also presented to other entrants in recognition of their contribution to the competition. Their involvement reflects growing interest among young people in standards-related issues and demonstrates the value of platforms that promote research, critical inquiry, and a culture of quality within institutions of higher learning. 

In remarks read on behalf of SAZ Director General Mr. Comsus Mukoyi by the Director of Standards Development, Information and Training, R. Marunda, the Director General said, “The ARSO Continental Essay Competition is more than an academic contest; it is a strategic platform for raising awareness among young people about the role of standardization in Africa’s development. The competition encourages students to research continental challenges, analyse policy issues, and propose practical solutions, while nurturing a culture of quality, critical thinking, and innovation.” The Director General further noted that this year’s theme was particularly timely as Africa advances regional integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area, adding that harmonized standards are essential for reducing technical barriers to trade, improving product quality and safety, strengthening value chains, and enabling businesses, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises, to participate more effectively in intra-African and global trade. He congratulated the winners, commended all participants for their effort, and encouraged more young people to take part in future editions of the competition. 

Remarks from the adjudicator provided further insight into the qualities that distinguished the strongest submissions. In addition to meeting the editorial requirements of word count, formatting, and professional presentation, the essays were assessed on the clarity of their introductions, the depth of their understanding of harmonized standards and ARSO’s mandate, and their ability to present evidence-based analysis of how differing standards, regulations, and certification procedures continue to hinder trade across the continent. Particular attention was given to how well participants linked their arguments to the AfCFTA framework, demonstrated the effects of technical barriers on micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, and proposed practical solutions grounded in policy and implementation realities. 

The prize handover ceremony was therefore more than a celebration of academic success. It reaffirmed the importance of investing in young people as emerging voices in standardization, quality infrastructure, and trade policy, while emphasizing the value of platforms that challenge them to think critically about Africa’s development. As Zimbabwe’s top entries proceed for consideration at the continental level, the event concluded with a strong message on the role of informed, thoughtful, and engaged young Africans in advancing a more integrated, competitive, and prosperous continent. 

THE FUTURE OF BUSINESS THROUGH CERTIFICATION: – LEVERAGING THE ISO 14001:2026 STANDARD FOR CLIMATE CHANGE IN ORGANISATIONS OF DEVELOPING ECONOMIES
By Reginald Dennis Gwisai (BSc, MSc, PhD)

INTRODUCTION: The current sustainability dynamics are faced with a plethora of challenges reframed by climate uncertainty, resource scarcity, increasing regulatory requirements, and heightened stakeholder expectations. This has made environmental sustainability a strategic business imperative instead of a compliance exercise. International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) certified organisations have been intentional about transitioning from statements and targets to demonstrating consistency, building trust and impact, and turning ambition to action through measurable progression. On the other hand, through a structured pathway they continue to seek robust frameworks that assist in managing environmental impacts, strengthening resilience and demonstrating accountability. Previous studies have shown a link between ISO 14001 adoption and Greenhouse Gas (GHGs) emissions reduction, where a 1% increase in ISO 14001 certifications has been associated with a 0.14% decline in GHG emissions per unit of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Therefore the increased use of ISO 14001 is associated with lower emissions, driving sustainability, economic growth and resilience. While, standards have a positive impact with regard to cost reduction, enhancing competitiveness, improving operational efficiency and creating long – term value. Significant benefits have been observed in countries with mature standardisation systems where industry, government and regulatory bodies leverage on building a symbiotic ecosystem. Environmental, economic and societal values are realised through standardisation. Hence, ISO 14001:2026 delivers a significant opportunity for organisations to integrate environmental stewardship and climate action in their core business; while converting environmental commitments to performance, resilience, confidence and long – term value.
SETTING A HIGHER STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE: The revised standard is an opportunity for business to accelerate environmental responsibility through enhancing best practices and refining measurable outcomes. The dynamics of the standards landscape demand higher expectations, rigorous assessments and sustainable environmental performance premised on organisation achievements instead of commitments. The new edition provides a clear pathway that guides the organisation’s efforts, inculcates environmental management into the decision making framework and motivates for consistent and credible generation of results. This sets up an agile framework for decision making.
ACTIONABLE STRATEGIES: In pursuit of the internationally agreed goals and targets (i.e. Sustainable Development Goals), a number of strategies are envisaged to assist in strengthening environmental management and accelerating climate action. Key emerging global priorities are as follows:

1. Anchoring climate action (i.e. adaptation and mitigation) into the Environmental Management System (EMS); (i) where climate issues are embedded in the organisational context and needs analysis (i.e. using clause 4 for assessing climate change, findings in the EMS scope, risks and objectives); (ii) setting climate – aligned objectives and targets (i.e. using clause 6 for science based targets, materiality reporting, linking them to Key Performance Indicators, ownership, budgets and integrating sustainability reporting frameworks with enterprise planning); (iii) strengthening leadership and governance (i.e. through assigning board and executive accountability, resourcing EMS, refining the environmental criteria to investment, procurement, mergers and acquisition decisions in order to attain the renewed leadership emphasis).
2. Planning with a full scale value – chain lens; (i) with considerations for mapping aspects and impacts across system operations and the value chain (i.e. on a continuum from upstream to downstream opportunities, practices and impacts); (ii) while aligning risks and opportunity management through restructured planning.
3. Executing flagship and high – impact programmes in the context of decarbonisation, climate resilience, sustainable resource stewardship and procurement.
4. Measurement, verification and improvement, in the context of building a robust data and monitoring landscape, performing evaluative reviews, transparent reporting and credibility.
5. Engaging stakeholders and aligning with public frameworks (i.e. environmental governance), in order to connect the EMS priorities to the local authorities (i.e. municipalities, cities, provinces and at national level).
6. Considerations for transition planning for the new edition (ISO 14001:2026) in view of the following factors; timeliness and readiness, the three year transition window, the structured gap assessment, training, implementation and liaising with the certification body (i.e. Standards Association of Zimbabwe).
7. Delineating a road map checklist, to conduct a gap assessment (i.e. focused on climate, biodiversity and the value chain); refining the materiality aspects and risk analysis (i.e. using climate and nature scenarios) and updating the EMS scope and aspects; setting measurable objectives with KPIs, governance, budgets and the owners aligned to the business strategy; integrating controls into system operations and procurement; applying circular economy principles; updating the design and change management procedures; upgrading data systems and the internal audit programmes and scheduling the transition audit.
   RECOMMENDATIONS FOR BUSINESS IN ZIMBABWE: The ISO 14001: 2026 is the latest evolution in guiding sustainable practices and a paradigm shift in environmental management systems that provides organisations with a robust framework to minimise the ecological footprint, while enhancing operational efficiency. In Zimbabwe climate change has an influence on key sectors such as energy, agriculture, mining, manufacturing, energy and tourism, hence the need to adopt internationally recognised management systems for investment promotion, business competitiveness and environmental sustainability.
   The standard focuses on systematic approaches to identify, control and reduce environmental impacts through risk based thinking. The emphasis is on proactive compliance with regulatory requirements, supporting continuous improvement in environmental performances, climate change mitigation through strategic risk assessment, resource optimisation and stakeholder engagement. Key value propositions are premised on multiple benefits such as fostering a culture of environmental responsibility, enhancing brand reputation, cost reduction and improved resource management. Furthermore, the standard assists organisations to align with global sustainability goals, while meeting the increasing demands from consumers, investors and regulatory agencies for transparent environmental accountability. An opportunity for leadership in sustainable innovation arises when organisations integrate the ISO 14001:2026 framework to manage the evolving environmental regulations. Hence, enabling business to adapt to the shifting market landscape that has been reshaped by climate change challenges leading to long – term resilience and competitiveness.
   In addition, organisations benefit through carbon emissions management which plays a critical role in reducing the GHG emissions through measuring carbon footprints; setting emission reduction targets; monitoring progress with regard to climate goals and inculcating decarbonisation into business planning. Key opportunities for organisations in the resource efficiency framework are; reduced energy consumption, minimised waste generation, improved water demand management and optimised material usage. Integration with broader sustainability initiatives is a significant opportunity for organisations certified for ISO 14001:2026 through the application of Environmental, Social and Governance reporting, net – zero pathway strategies, SDGs, climate risk management and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) for social value creation.
   CONCLUSION: In conclusion, as the global economy pivots towards sustainability, certification becomes the chief cornerstone of responsible business strategies and the main driver for a sustainable and green future. Thus leveraging the ISO 14001:2026 standard becomes a fundamental principle for business to accelerate effective environmental management and combating climate change. Furthermore, certified organisations are positioned to be competitive at all levels (i.e. local, regional and international markets) making them catalysts for sustainable growth, climate resilience, and economic transformation.

REFERENCES
International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) 14001:2026 Environmental Management Systems. Requirements with Guidance for Use. https://www.iso.org/obp/ui/en/#iso:std:iso:14001:ed-4:v1:en (Accessed 01 June 2026).
Leino, O. (2026). Certification Standards as Tools for Climate Adaptation in Supply Chains. https://aaltodoc.aalto.fi/items/7b26013f-5ec4-4ee4-bf8d-362dfaaa495b (Accessed: 01 June 2026).
Ofori, E. K., Asongu, S. A., Ali, E. B., Gyamfi, B. A., & Ahakwa, I. (2026). Environmental Impact of ISO 14001 Certification in Promoting Sustainable Development: The moderating role of innovation and structural change in BRICS, MINT, and G7 economies. Energy & Environment, 37(2), 798-825.
Olawole, A., & Adeniran, T. E. (2025). Regulatory Framework and Standardization: A Contemporary. International Journal of Research Publication and Reviews, 6(7), 5407 – 5421.
Saleh, M. W., Mansour, M., Shubita, M. F., Lutfi, A., Salah, W., & Rehman, S. U. (2026). Does ISO 14001 Boost Energy Firm’s Financial Performance? The Moderating Role of Environmental, Social, and Governance. Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Management.
Standards Association of Zimbabwe (2026). ISO 14001:2026 Now Available. Media Release https://www.saz.org.zw/iso-140012026-it-is-here/ (Accessed 01 June 2026).
Tošić, B., Mijatović, I., Radojičić, M., Glogovac, M., & Krivokapić, J. (2026). Impact of Companies’ Knowledge Management on the Environmental Management System Certification. Knowledge Management Research & Practice, 1 – 18.
Tsaimou, C. N., Intzeler, M., & Tsoukala, V. K. (2026). Port Digital Twins for Sustainable Urban Futures in Europe. Earth, 7(2), 68. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/earth7020068.

MEDIA RELEASE

New global research highlights significant environmental benefit of ISO 14001, as the updated standard launches today

• New international research covering 83 countries over two decades has linked the adoption of ISO 14001 to significant reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity.
• Preliminary research found that a 1% increase in ISO 14001 certifications is associated with a 0.14% decrease in GHG emissions per unit of GDP. The study also revealed the effect is heterogeneous across economies: high income countries show the strongest reduction in GHG per unit of GDP, followed by middle income countries, while low-income countries exhibit a small effect.
• The findings reinforce the value of International Standards in significantly improving environmental performance, as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) launches the updated edition of ISO 14001:2026 – environmental management systems on 15 April 2026.
• More than 670,000 organizations worldwide currently use ISO 14001 to manage their environmental impact. The new edition offers clearer guidance, easier navigation and stronger alignment with today’s environmental priorities, including climate change, biodiversity and resource efficiency.

Geneva, Switzerland | 15 April 2026 – Preliminarynew international research has linked the adoption of ISO 14001, the world’s most widely used environmental management systems standard, with significant reductions in GHG emissions intensity.

A two-year research project led by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) analysed data from 83 countries between 1999 and 2022, identifying a strong and statistically solid correlation between the adoption of ISO 14001 and improved environmental performance.

The study found that a 1% increase in ISO 14001 certifications is associated with a 0.14% decrease in GHG per unit of GDP, reinforcing the credibility and value of the ISO 14000 family and the relevance of the new edition of the standard, which ISO launches today.

ISO 14001, the leading International Standard for environmental management, is adopted by more than 670,000 organizations worldwide*. ISO 14001:2026, the new edition, updates a trusted framework to align with current environmental priorities, including climate change and biodiversity.

Sergio Mujica, Secretary-General of ISO, said ISO 14001:2026 empowered organizations everywhere to improve environmental performance, cut costs and stay compliant, while building credibility and making a tangible difference for the planet.

“The new edition of ISO 14001 is smoother to implement and integrates seamlessly with other ISO management systems standards, making it easier for organizations of all sizes to embed environmental management into their strategy, achieve tangible results and demonstrate real impact,” Mr Mujica said.

“We are encouraged by the findings of this new research and excited to launch the new edition of ISO 14001: a trusted standard, renewed for today – helping organizations everywhere continue to turn environmental commitment into performance, resilience and lasting value.”

Chantal Guay, CEO of Standards Council of Canada (SCC), who holds the secretariat for ISO Technical Committee 207 (Environmental Management), said, “We know that standards help reduce costs, improve efficiency, and support stronger economies. We’ve been measuring these impacts at the organizational level. But increasingly, through targeted research, we’re able to demonstrate their broader, system-wide benefits. This study is a strong example of that. In simple terms, increasing the use of ISO 14001 is associated with lower emissions, even as the economy continues to grow.

“Another important finding is that countries with more mature standardization systems—where industry, government, and regulators work closely together—see even greater benefits. These are significant findings that reinforce what we’ve long believed: standardization delivers real value across economic, environmental, and societal fronts.”

Susan Taylor Martin, Chief Executive of BSI, who holds the secretariat for ISO Technical Committee 207/SC1 (Environmental management systems) said, “Thirty years ago ISO 14001 redefined how organizations approach environmental responsibility. BSI is proud to have played a leading role in its original creation. Since then, it has provided a shared global framework, enabling hundreds of thousands of organizations to manage their environmental impact in a structured, credible and measurable way.

“As environmental risks become more complex and interconnected, and expectations for transparency and accountability continue to rise, this latest revision represents far more than a routine update. It is a major step forward, strengthening governance, enhancing resilience and aligning with emerging priorities such as climate change, biodiversity and natural capital. It will equip organizations with the tools to embed environmental thinking into strategy, demonstrate real accountability and deliver measurable impact to support the transition to a fair society and a sustainable world.”

While the new research highlights the standard’s impact on GHG emissions, ISO 14001 addresses a broader range of environmental challenges. The standard supports organizations in managing their impact across areas such as biodiversity, resource use, waste and pollution, helping to drive more sustainable practices throughout operations and value chains.

It also provides a robust framework to support environmental data collection, management and reporting, enabling organizations to strengthen the quality and credibility of their sustainability disclosures. By taking a holistic approach to environmental management, ISO 14001 enables organizations to respond to interconnected global challenges and deliver meaningful, measurable improvements beyond climate alone.

By transitioning to ISO 14001:2026, organizations ensure they remain at the forefront of credible, effective and globally recognized environmental management. The updated standard makes environmental responsibility more accessible for every organization of all sizes, while also supporting more transparent and consistent reporting aligned with evolving stakeholder and regulatory expectations. In doing so, it helps turn sustainability goals into measurable impact: cleaner air, safer water and a healthier planet for generations to come.

CLICK HERE TO SEE WHAT’S CHANGED

More information about ISO 14001:2026 is available at http://iso.org/standard/14001.

For more information, please contact:

standards@saz.org.zw

call 0785 183 805/0242885511/2

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Zimbabwe has once again demonstrated its growing leadership in quality excellence, following an impressive performance at the 2025/26 SADC Quality Awards, where the country secured six awards from a total of seven entries submitted. This strong regional representation reflects the rising commitment of Zimbabwean organizations and professionals to quality standards, innovation, and global competitiveness. The awards ceremony was held on 25 March 2026 at the Premier Hotel in Johannesburg, South Africa, during the SADC Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Meetings.

Zimbabwe’s representatives—carefully selected after excelling at the National Annual Quality Awards (NAQA)—delivered an exceptional result at the SADC regional stage.

Dinson Iron and Steel Company (Pvt) Ltd, Integrated Properties (Pvt) Ltd, and Tobacco Processors Zimbabwe (Pvt) Ltd each earned 2nd runner‑up positions for outstanding achievements in their respective categories: Category 4 – Exporter of the Year (Large Enterprise), Category 1 – Company of the Year, and Category 3 – Service of the Year (Large Enterprise).

Irvine’s Zimbabwe and Chibuku Super – Delta Beverages (Pty) Ltd also received special recognition in Category 1 – Company of the Year (Large Enterprise) and Category 2 – Product of the Year (Large Enterprise), respectively. Their accolades reaffirm their ongoing commitment to quality improvement and global best practices.

In the individual category, Isaac Mlambo distinguished himself as the Winner in Category 5, earning distinction for exemplary leadership and excellence.

These achievements underscore the strength of Zimbabwe’s national quality framework and the value of continued investment in standards, certification, and quality‑driven processes.

Launch of 2026 National Annual Quality Awards

With the regional celebrations still fresh, The Standardization Quality Assurance Accreditation and Meteorology (SQAM) Committee is ready for the next cycle of the National Annual Quality Awards. The awards recognize organizations and individuals who demonstrate excellence in quality management, customer service, leadership, innovation, and performance improvement.

Key dates for the 2026 awards cycle are as follows:

📌 Call for Entries Opens: 31 March 2026

Click here to download Entry Forms

📌 Preparatory Workshop: 13 May 2026

This workshop is designed to help potential entrants understand category requirements and improve the quality of their submissions.

📌 Submission Deadline: 31 July 2026

📌 Awards Ceremony: 11 September 2026

Participation is open to both certified (not only to ISO 9001:2015, but to other management systems as well) and non‑certified companies, encouraging broader inclusion across industries and business sizes. Entrants stand to gain national recognition, enhanced credibility, and potential qualification for future SADC regional representation.