The Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, says that robust synergy and collaboration among African nations and ARSO member states are crucial to implementing the AfCFTA Agreement, particularly in enhancing a Common Regulatory Framework.
Dr Uzoka-Anite, stated this while she addressed industry leaders, policymakers, and experts dedicated to shaping Africa’s standardisation landscape, at the ongoing 30th General Assembly of the African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO).
It has the theme: “Educate an African Fit for the 21st Century – Building a Quality Culture – One Market, One Standard.
The minister highlighted the importance of understanding standards and standards-related issues in policy-making, especially as the world moves towards artificial intelligence for faster development.
The minister stressed the need to focus on Africa’s regional value chains and the competitiveness of Made-in-Africa products, aiming for export-oriented manufacturing, value addition, and quality infrastructure to boost intra-African trade and industrialisation.
The Director-General of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, added that standardisation fosters a quality culture that ensures products and services meet international benchmarks, enhances competitiveness, and facilitates trade.
Okeke urged the Assembly to re-commit to the CESA 2016-2025 strategy, addressing educational deficits with innovative approaches and available technologies.
He highlighted the African Union’s declaration of 2024 as the “Year of Education,” calling on all governments to ensure inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all.
He described the Assembly as a call to action for policymakers, educators, industry leaders, and stakeholders to unite in fostering a resilient, inclusive, and quality-driven education system, ultimately nurturing a generation of Africans fit for the 21st century and beyond.