Nairobi: The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has intensified its market surveillance activities as it seeks to ensure that products in the Kenyan market comply with the requirements set out in the approved specifications and do not endanger health, safety, or the environment. KEBS Ag. Chief Manager-Quality Assurance John Kabue stated that the organization is constantly monitoring products in the Kenyan market to ensure they conform to relevant technical regulations with respect to health, safety, and environmental requirements, and to promote fair-trade practices.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kabue, speaking in Nairobi during a media engagement forum, emphasized the aim to facilitate smooth trade in the country and the region by writing standards that ensure products can freely move from one country to another. He highlighted the focus on consumer protection to ensure that products in the market are safe, achieved through frequent visits to manufacturers to check adherence to required and documented standards.
Kabue disclosed that KEBS has offices spread across the country and border points to check if imported goods meet the required standards and set specifications for product performance. He mentioned the 'Wajibika na KEBS' initiative, which includes a toll-free line, 1545, where Kenyans can inquire about products. Additionally, a whistleblower platform on the KEBS website allows reporting of manufacturers or individuals dealing with substandard goods.
Kabue explained that they regularly conduct sector-targeted market surveillance activities based on a programmed schedule and product risk assessment results. These activities ensure that all complaints related to substandard and counterfeit products are acknowledged, reviewed, evaluated, and investigated to conclusion. He added that corrective and preventive actions, including seizure, arrests, prosecution, and product recalls, are being initiated and implemented.
KEBS Corporate Communication Manager Mercy Kandie urged farmers to purchase seeds and fertilizers from certified companies and suppliers to avoid counterfeits, which could affect their harvest. Kandie noted the importance of vigilance during the planting season and mentioned KEBS's collaboration with other government bodies, such as the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), to eliminate fake seeds and fertilizers from the market.