By Diana kintu
The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has begun a new chapter with the inauguration of a new National Standards Council (NSC). The 10th NCS led by Eng. James Kalibala as Chairperson was ushered in by the Minister of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives, Francis Mwebesa, at a ceremony held at the Kampala Serena Hotel in Kampala.
The minister said this milestone marks an important step in improving Uganda’s quality systems and protecting consumers.
He urged the new council members to focus on ensuring that the local manufacturers adhere to the set international standards, stressing the importance of thorough factory checks and public education to ensure Ugandan products meet local and international quality levels.
This he said supports the government’s broader economic plans like the Parish Development Model and the National Development Plan IV.
The new council, composed of skilled professionals, also has Dr. John Patrick Kabayo as Vice Chair, and Eng. James Kasigwa, who is the Executive Director of UNBS and Secretary to the Council.
Other members are Maj. Dr. Atwoki John Mathais Rusoke Tagasgwire, Mr. Ainebyona Denis, Ms. Hawa Nsubuga Lule, Prof. Mnason Tweheyo, and Ms. Stella Nyapendi Chombo.
State Minister for Trade, Gen. Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, highlighted the council’s important role in building Uganda’s quality systems. “Strengthening our framework can boost export potential and cut down on imports,” Gen. Mbadi said.
Eng. Kalibala, the new NSC Chairperson, promised to build on past successes and create stronger ties with industry partners.
A key moment at the event was the announcement of UNBS’s new focus on helping Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME’s).
The ED Eng. Kasigwa shared plans to guide startups and small businesses through specialized training in quality assurance, meeting standards, and certification. “We aim to support these businesses through every stage of meeting standards, from production to entering the market,” Kasigwa said.
The National Standards Council operates under the UNBS Act, which allows it to set standards, manage bureau activities, create policies, and advise the trade ministry. These tasks are vital as Uganda aims to be more competitive in regional and global markets.
UNBS was founded to protect public health and safety and promote fair trade practices. It remains committed to removing poor-quality products from the market while supporting genuine businesses through certification.
This leadership change comes at an important time as Uganda looks to improve its manufacturing strengths and product quality for both local needs and international markets.
The diverse skills of the new council members will be key in helping UNBS achieve its mission of ensuring “Quality Everywhere” in Uganda’s economy.
For more information about UNBS activities and meeting standards, the public can call the bureau’s free hotline at 0800 133 133, visit www.unbs.go.ug, or contact Principal Public Relations Officer Sylvia Kirabo at 0703196903.