Strategic alliances have become very common nowadays. Most organisations are creating partnerships to enhance their critical mass. Infact, this is the only way organisations can pool their resources together, and transfer expertise and skills. The invitation at the just-ended Zambia Institute of Marketing conference by Minister of Local Government and Housing, Hon. Sylvia Masebo to the institute to form linkages with her ministry should be commended by all of us. There is a need for professionals to occupy senior government positions in local authorities if performance is to improve in these institutions. The institute should now take the challenge and ensure that members are also appointed on the boards of various quasi-government bodies. In this way, efficiency and professionalism shall be enhanced in this country. As we come to the end of the year, we wish to extend special thanks to all our partners who have contributed greatly to the organic growth of the institute. ZIM believes that without your support, we would not have gone thus far. In addition, we implore all members to be passionate about the institute in the coming year. Let us ensure that we leave a legacy for future generations. Finally, this edition features all the presentations that were delivered at this year's annual national marketing conference, for the benefit of those members who did not attend the event. All the best in 2008.

James Chiwala, Editor