UNBS engages Jinja business community on product standardization and compliance
She also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the dangers posed by non-compliant products.
Jinja: On November 13, 2024, the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) held an important meeting with the Jinja business community at Madhvani Hall.
The meeting, aimed at promoting product standardization and ensuring compliance with regulations, addressed key issues related to certification procedures, market surveillance, and the DCM (Documented Compliance Mechanism) program, which is designed to foster sustainable economic growth and consumer protection.
Principal Certification Officer Philip Kahuma led the discussions, highlighting the importance of the DCM program in ensuring that commodities meet the required standards for quality, traceability, and safety.
He urged the business community to report any concerns or suspected counterfeit products to the relevant authorities to help curb the spread of substandard goods in the market. Kahuma emphasized that those involved in impersonation or forgery would face legal consequences, as UNBS operates under clear and public guidelines.
“We work with transparent procedures, and any violations, including counterfeiting, will result in legal action. We rely on the cooperation of the business community to ensure that Uganda’s markets are safe and fair,” Kahuma stated.
Kobere Linda from the UNBS Market Surveillance Department also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the dangers posed by non-compliant products.
These products, she explained, fail to meet mandatory specifications, lack required markings, or exceed their shelf life, putting consumers at risk and undermining fair trade practices. She cautioned that businesses dealing in such products could face severe penalties, including suspension of production, business closure, and other sanctions.
“Our role is to ensure fairness in trade and to protect consumers. Non-compliant products not only harm the reputation of businesses but also pose significant risks to public health and safety,” said Kobere.
Vice Chairperson of the Uganda National Traders Alliance, Babalanda Patrick, raised concerns about counterfeit weighing scales and the duplication of products in the market.
He called on UNBS to form task forces that would work closely with other district departments to monitor the accuracy and reliability of weighing equipment used in trade. This would help ensure that all commercial transactions are fair and transparent.
Muyanda Emmanuel, General Secretary of the Jinja City Traders Association, echoed similar sentiments, urging local businesses to prioritize product standardization. He also underscored the importance of paying taxes, stressing that taxes are crucial for the country’s development and the provision of better public services.
“Paying taxes is not just a legal obligation, it’s an investment in the progress of our country. We all have a role to play in building a strong and thriving economy,” Emmanuel said.
However, he also urged tax collectors to adopt a more friendly and respectful approach when interacting with the business community, encouraging a collaborative rather than confrontational relationship.
The Assistant Resident City Commissioner (RCC) of Jinja City, Mubiru George, praised UNBS for its ongoing efforts to engage the business community and improve communication. He encouraged the traders to embrace standardization practices and pay their taxes, as these actions are critical for national development.
Mubiru also emphasized the need for continued community engagement to prevent forgery and ensure that all businesses comply with the country’s standards.
“Regular engagement between the UNBS and the business community is vital for progress. We must work together to ensure that businesses operate in a fair and regulated environment that protects both consumers and traders,” Mubiru said.
The meeting concluded with a strong call for continued collaboration between UNBS, the business community, and local government officials to ensure that Uganda’s markets remain safe, fair, and competitive.
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