The world unites in celebrating World Standards Day, focusing on the theme: "Shared Vision for a Better World." This significant day highlights the importance of international standards in fostering global trade, safety, and innovation.
In line with this celebration, the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has awarded certificates of recognition to twenty-six (26) companies for their commitment to implementing ISO standards, specifically ISO 9001:2015 for Quality Management Systems and Integrated Management Systems.
The recognition ceremony took place at the UNBS head office in Bweyogerere, where Eng. James N. Kasigwa, the Executive Director of UNBS, underscored the vital role of standards in enhancing Uganda's economic growth.
He emphasised that the adoption of international standards not only improves the quality and safety of products and services but also enhances their competitiveness in national, regional, and international markets.
“Standards help businesses ensure that their products and services conform to safety and quality requirements, are competitive globally, improve market access, technology transfer, innovation, efficiency, effectiveness, and customer satisfaction,” Eng. Kasigwa remarked.
This sentiment is supported by a recent study conducted by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO), which revealed that standardisation contributes a remarkable 23.7% to Uganda’s GDP and economic growth annually.
As the country transitions from the National Development Plan (NDP) III to NDP IV, UNBS is finalising its five-year strategic plan, introducing a new value proposition aimed at fostering quality among Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Eng. Kasigwa outlined the bureau’s commitment to guiding MSMEs in meeting international standards to boost productivity and create employment opportunities.
“Our new value proposition of growing quality MSMEs means that UNBS will handhold MSMEs to meet standards, increase productivity, and enhance socio-economic development. This approach aims to drive export promotion, import substitution, and industrialisation,” he stated. Notably, UNBS has successfully supported over 1,200 MSMEs in achieving certification over the years, reinforcing the significance of standardisation in economic growth.
The companies recognised during the event represent a diverse range of sectors, including government agencies, manufacturing, and services such as Information and Communication Technology (ICT), education, private security, and charter flight services. This diversity highlights the broad applicability and importance of standards across different industries.
As we celebrate World Standards Day, it is clear that the commitment to quality and standards can lead to enhanced competitiveness, economic growth, and improved consumer safety.
The efforts of UNBS and the recognised companies exemplify how embracing international standards can create a shared vision for a better world, ultimately benefiting all Ugandans.
With continued focus on standardisation, Uganda is poised to thrive in the global marketplace, fostering innovation and quality across its industries.
