The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has partnered with district and city commercial officers to develop a standards framework that will guide efforts to support Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in meeting product standards and accessing certification services. The Auditor General recently raised red flags on many substandard consumable goods like food, drinks, and cosmetics that have flooded the Ugandan market.
The framework will provide guidelines on how commercial officers can help SMEs comply with standards, register with UNBS, and reduce the circulation of substandard products in local markets.
The initiative was unveiled during a three-day engagement with commercial officers from the Ankole and Kigezi sub-regions at the Rwizi Hotel in Mbarara City. Speaking at the meeting, Abubakar Bakuru Mpagi, a Principal Certification Officer at UNBS, said commercial officers are well-positioned to support SMEs because they understand the businesses operating within their districts.
However, many lack the technical knowledge required to guide entrepreneurs through standards compliance processes. Mpagi said equipping commercial officers with knowledge on standards and certification will strengthen efforts to curb substandard products, particularly those produced by informal businesses that operate outside the regulatory framework.
He noted that many SMEs remain unregistered despite having products on the market, making it difficult for UNBS to monitor compliance and offer support. While the bureau has established regional offices, many entrepreneurs still face challenges accessing its services.
According to Mpagi, SMEs play a critical role in Uganda’s economy by creating jobs and supplying goods and services consumed daily by the public. He stressed that all businesses, regardless of size, must comply with established standards to ensure consumer safety and product quality.
He added that commercial officers will serve as a bridge between UNBS and SMEs by guiding certification requirements, registration processes, and other compliance-related issues. Mbarara District Commercial Officer Adams Bwisho welcomed the initiative, describing the training as long overdue.
He said greater collaboration between UNBS and local government officials is essential in tackling the growing challenge of substandard and counterfeit products. The initiative comes amid concerns over the proliferation of substandard consumable goods in Uganda.
Mpagi said involving commercial officers in standards enforcement and sensitisation efforts will help strengthen monitoring and improve compliance among SMEs across the country.
Denis Mbaine, proprietor of Baine Maize Flour for Nutrition, said empowering commercial officers will help bridge the gap between UNBS and SMEs, particularly in rural areas where access to technical support remains limited. He said many business owners require guidance on product certification and standards compliance, adding that local commercial officers will provide a more accessible channel for obtaining information and support.
Mbaine expressed optimism that the initiative will make it easier for SMEs to navigate the registration process and improve the quality of products reaching the market-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
