MERU, Kenya – The Kenya Bureau of Standards has initiated nationwide public consultations on a new set of proposed regulations aimed at strengthening oversight in product certification, laboratory testing, and measurement systems.
The draft proposals were unveiled during a stakeholder forum held in Meru on Friday, where participants voiced concerns over the increasing circulation of substandard goods, inconsistent laboratory results, and inaccurate measurement practices affecting key sectors of the economy.
According to KEBS officials, the review marks the first comprehensive overhaul of the regulatory framework since 1977. The proposed reforms are intended to simplify compliance procedures and lower certification costs, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that have struggled to meet existing requirements.
Speaking during the forum, KEBS officer Joseph Gachanja said the new regulations are designed to strengthen monitoring systems and curb cases where faulty or unverified equipment compromises the quality of goods and services in the market.
“This review is expected to improve compliance and ensure that only verified and reliable systems are used in production and service delivery,” he said.
Gachanja added that the reforms are expected to encourage more businesses to comply with national quality standards while enhancing the competitiveness of Kenyan products in both local and regional markets.
Meanwhile, KEBS representative Teresia Gachagua clarified the distinction between counterfeit and substandard products, noting that KEBS primarily focuses on quality assurance, while counterfeit-related matters fall under separate enforcement agencies.
“Not all fake products are necessarily substandard,” she explained, adding that the proliferation of counterfeit goods continues to negatively affect manufacturers and the broader business environment.
Officials from the laboratories and testing department also emphasized that tighter regulation of laboratories would improve the credibility and international recognition of test results issued in Kenya, particularly in export markets where quality assurance remains critical.
Daniel Omulogoli said the proposed laws will address three key areas: product certification, scientific and industrial metrology, and the testing and designation of laboratories.
KEBS has now invited manufacturers, traders, consumer organizations, and members of the public to submit their views before the regulations are finalized and implemented.
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