Kwale: The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has made a strong appeal to media outlets to join forces with the agency in raising public awareness about product certification, consumer safety, and the fight against fraudsters impersonating KEBS officers. This call to action was highlighted during a media engagement forum held in Kwale County, where KEBS emphasized the media’s pivotal role in educating consumers.
According to Kenya News Agency, Peter Makhan, KEBS Mombasa Manager for Market Surveillance, stressed that this collaboration with media houses would increase public knowledge of KEBS’ responsibilities and empower consumers to identify quality products. Makhan stated, “The media plays a critical role in helping the public understand what KEBS does in ensuring that consumers access quality and safe products.” He also highlighted KEBS’ ongoing efforts to monitor market products to ensure they meet required standards and carry valid certification marks.
The importance of KEBS certification for manufacturers, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, was underscored by Maina, who noted that certification facilitates access to broader markets in Kenya and the East African region. “Certification enhances consumer confidence and business growth,” he explained. He also encouraged manufacturers to utilize the simplified online application process, which allows entrepreneurs to apply for certification remotely via the KEBS Integrated Management System (KIMS) portal.
Hassan Omar, Manager for Quality Assurance and Product Certification at KEBS Mombasa, explained that obtaining the Standardization Mark of Quality has become more accessible through the KIMS platform. He shared success stories of local enterprises that expanded their operations after receiving KEBS certification, urging entrepreneurs to view certification as a pathway to business growth and market expansion.
KEBS officials raised concerns about individuals impersonating KEBS officers, defrauding traders, and damaging the agency’s reputation. Makhan noted that these imposters create a false impression that KEBS solicits bribes during market inspections. To combat this issue, KEBS has introduced a mobile verification service that allows traders and the public to verify the identity of field officers before engaging with them.
The officials called on media practitioners to disseminate crucial information about product certification, quality assurance, and officer verification. They emphasized that increased public awareness would not only bolster consumer protection but also encourage more manufacturers to formalize their products and explore broader regional markets.
