By KT Reporter
The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has conducted a two-day training in Kasese District targeting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the grain-milling sector across the Rwenzori Sub-region. The training is part of the Bureau’s ongoing capacity-building efforts to support MSMEs engaged in milling maize, rice, millet, sorghum, barley, wheat, and composite flour.
Joard Ndungu Mubatsi, a standards officer under engineering standards at UNBS, said the initiative aims to boost compliance with national standards, improve product competitiveness both locally and internationally, and enhance fair trade.
He explained that the training equips proprietors with knowledge to leverage UNBS services—such as product certification—to grow their businesses, broaden market access, protect consumers, and contribute to socio-economic development.
Mubatsi emphasized that UNBS has a responsibility to support MSMEs to achieve quality and certification, noting that improved quality in the sector directly contributes to national economic growth. He noted that while management systems certification has not been fully embraced in Uganda, export markets in Europe and the United States require mandatory certification in key Quality and Food Safety Systems.
Nankumbi Nusifah, a cassava and maize miller in Kasese, told URN that although UNBS has focused mainly on processors and traders, contamination in grain products often begins at the farm. She urged authorities to extend sensitization to farmers to reduce toxicity at the production level.
Enock Bazara, who operates maize and cassava milling plants in Ntoroko District, welcomed the training, saying many enterprises lack information on how to certify their products. He also agreed that farmers need sensitization to maintain standards throughout the value chain.
John Kato, from Rwimi United Development Association in Bunyangabu District, said engagements like these are essential for helping traders access wider markets.
Mubatsi further noted that grain processors and transporters must work closely with UNBS by guiding suppliers on food-safety improvements using the knowledge gained from the training. He said the Bureau will continue efforts to address and eliminate standard violations.
The government has been urging companies that supply grain and grain products to ministries, departments, and agencies to ensure they are certified by UNBS. In 2019, the Bureau attained accreditation to offer management system certification based on ISO 9001 (Quality Management Systems) and ISO 22000 (Food Safety Management Systems), enabling Ugandan businesses to compete more effectively in global markets.
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