Manufacturers Urge for Streamlined Certification Processes at UNBS

Manufacturers in Uganda are facing considerable challenges due to prolonged product certification timelines, impacting their ability to compete effectively in the market. The current system at the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) is described as inefficient, with processes that can take over three years, leading many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to abandon certification or release products without it.

Hon. Richard Gafabusa, former MP for Bwamba County, highlighted that this dysfunctionality has allowed substandard and counterfeit goods to flood the market, eroding investor confidence and slowing industrial growth. He attributes the delays and conflicts within UNBS to overlapping governance and management roles, which weaken accountability and decision-making.

To address these issues, Gafabusa proposed strengthening the Pre-Export Verification of Conformity to Standards (PVoC) program through digitalization, artificial intelligence, and better collaboration with the Uganda Revenue Authority and border agencies. He also stressed the importance of bolstering regional laboratories and decentralizing testing and certification services.

Peter Kasirye, Chairperson of the Uganda Small Scale Industries Association, echoed these concerns, noting that compliant manufacturers are disadvantaged by uncertified competitors undercutting them on price. He also called for greater transparency in fee structures and the availability of standards documents in local languages to build public trust.

Discussions also touched upon harmonizing standards with regional neighbors to avoid disadvantaging Ugandan manufacturers within the East African Community. Lawmakers are seeking proposals from manufacturers for more affordable certification fees that would allow SMEs to thrive, while also emphasizing the need to address staffing shortages at UNBS and ensure equitable treatment for both local and foreign investors.