Uganda’s UNBS Under Scrutiny as Manufacturers Demand Faster, More Affordable Certification
Kampala, Uganda – A recent public forum, spearheaded by Col. Edith Nakalema, has laid bare significant challenges facing Ugandan entrepreneurs in their dealings with the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS). The meeting, attended by government officials and business leaders, highlighted concerns over lengthy certification processes, high fees, and a perceived lack of accountability within the standards body. These issues are now under intense scrutiny as Uganda aims for a tenfold expansion of its economy.
The push for economic growth hinges on a thriving private sector,particularly its Micro,Small,and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Government officials emphasized a new strategy focused on collaborative growth, urging MSMEs to actively partner with entities like UNBS to achieve ambitious national goals. The vision, as stated, is to fundamentally reshape Uganda’s economic landscape.
A Bureau in Transition
The forum revealed a consensus that UNBS had previously struggled with operational inefficiencies. Dr. Ezra Muhumuza, Executive Director of the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), acknowledged the entity was “in shambles” but praised recent interventions by the Ministry of Trade. These included establishing a National Standards Council for oversight and a threefold increase in UNBS’s budget.
However, these improvements haven’t yet translated into tangible benefits for businesses on the ground. Entrepreneurs voiced frustrations that are hindering their ability to compete and contribute to the national economic agenda.
Key Concerns Raised by Ugandan Entrepreneurs:
Delayed Certification: This was the most frequently cited issue. Multiple business owners reported delays exceeding 400 days, crippling their ability to launch products and fulfill existing contracts. Dr. Anna Nakanwagi Mukwaya,a public health specialist,explained how these delays directly impacted the supply of essential medicines for tuberculosis patients.
Exorbitant Fees: Entrepreneurs complained about high costs for UNBS services, even for documents that should be freely available. Mr. Sonko Peter specifically pointed out the cumbersome process of renewing permits annually, requiring a complete restart of the certification process each time.
Slow decision-Making: The bureaucratic pace of UNBS was repeatedly criticized. Mr. Gaster Lule Ntake of Ntake Group questioned whether the agency was promoting investment or actively hindering it with its sluggish processes.
Lack of Accountability: Prof. Bruce Kirenga, Principal of Makerere University College of Health Sciences, urged UNBS to implement systems ensuring employee accountability and clarity in service delivery. He advocated for automation to improve efficiency.
Insufficient Oversight: Dr. Mukwaya criticized the line Ministry for a lack of effective monitoring of UNBS’s performance, leaving businesses to bear the brunt of the agency’s shortcomings.
The Impact on Business
The consequences of these issues are far-reaching. Delayed certification prevents products from reaching consumers, stifles innovation, and discourages investment. Mr.Karizha Rukuuka Peter, an entrepreneur from Tororo, stated that the lack of certification made it impossible to secure business partnerships.
You need a streamlined, predictable certification process to thrive. Your ability to access markets and contribute to Uganda’s economic growth depends on it.
Moving Forward: A Call for Action
The forum served as a crucial platform for entrepreneurs to voice their concerns directly to authorities. Col. Nakalema’s initiative is a positive step toward addressing these challenges.
However, sustained action is required. UNBS must prioritize:
Process Optimization: Streamlining certification procedures and reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
fee Review: Conducting a thorough review of its fee structure to ensure affordability and fairness.
Transparency & Accountability: Implementing robust systems for tracking applications, providing clear timelines, and holding employees accountable for delays.
Digital Transformation: Investing in automation to improve efficiency and service delivery.
Strengthened Oversight: The Ministry of Trade must actively monitor UNBS’s performance and ensure it is indeed meeting the needs of Ugandan businesses.Uganda’s ambition to achieve a tenfold economic expansion is laudable. But realizing this vision requires a supportive regulatory environment. A responsive and efficient UNBS is not merely a regulator; it’s a critical partner in driving Uganda’s economic future.
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