The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBs) unveiled 416 new standards on Tuesday targeting key sectors including transport, chemical, leather, engineering, food and agriculture to improve quality and safety standards across industries.
Speaking at the World Standards Day celebration in Nairobi, Kebs managing director Esther Ngari said the launch of the new standards showcases the organization’s commitment to progress and promoting quality, sustainability and safety.
“Ten of the newly introduced standards are geared toward intelligent transport systems, a move strategically aligned with the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 3, aiming to mitigate road traffic accidents,” Ngari said.
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Rebecca Miano, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry, applauded the move, saying Kebs plays a pivotal role in realizing the broader goals of the Kenya Kwanza government.
“Through such initiatives, we are globally competitive and reflect our nation’s dedication to safety, innovation and quality. These standards form the backbone of the aspirations of Kenya Vision 2030,” Miano said.
Juma Mukhwana, Principal Secretary for the State Department of Industry, said the new standards mark a decisive step forward, bridging gaps in various sectors and enhancing efficiency. He praised Kebs’ efforts in ensuring robust standards in sectors like healthcare and nutrition, notably for regulating medical devices like syringes, directly impacting disease spread reduction.
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Ahmed Farah, Trademark Africa’s country director, said their partnership with Kebs has reduced test result turnaround time at Kebs satellite labs by 91.6% and increased calibration testing accuracy by about 30%.
“We strive to ensure high-quality standards, especially for export products, and reduce associated trade costs,” Farah said.
The event brought together key stakeholders in the standards sector who discussed the cardinal role of standards in fostering a sustainable and progressive nation. Collective voices resonated that standards are more than just guidelines.
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