Manufacturers call for faster certification

What the report says

Watchdog Uganda reported that manufacturers and industry representatives have urged Parliament to push for faster and more affordable product certification by the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS). The concerns were raised before the Committee on Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, chaired by Boniface Okot, on Wednesday, 22 July 2026, during discussions on the bureau’s mandate and operations.

Former Bwamba County MP Richard Gafabusa told the committee that a broad review of the UNBS Act is needed to clarify governance and operational responsibilities. According to the report, he argued that overlapping roles between the National Standards Council and UNBS management have contributed to slow decisions, weak accountability and delays in certification. He said some manufacturers, especially small and medium enterprises, wait many months or even years for approval, affecting market access and competitiveness.

Gafabusa also called for stronger Pre-Export Verification of Conformity to Standards, including electronic certification, use of artificial intelligence and closer coordination with Uganda Revenue Authority and border agencies. He further proposed more regional laboratories and decentralised testing, inspection and certification services.

Peter Kasirye, chairperson of the Uganda Small Scale Industries Association, said some small manufacturers face repeated fees for similar products on one production line, while uncertified competitors continue selling goods. MPs on the committee asked manufacturers to propose affordable fee levels for SMEs, and raised staffing gaps and equal treatment of local manufacturers and foreign investors as issues for UNBS to address.