In a significant move to enhance Uganda’s agricultural sector, the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has signed a USD 1.5 million (over Shs5.5 billion) partnership agreement with Trade Mark Africa.
This collaboration aims to promote standardization and export of agro-industrial products, which will ultimately boost the country’s economy.
The signing of partnership was officiated over by the UNBS Chief Executive Director, Eng. James Kasigwa and a team from Trade Mark Africa, will facilitate capacity building in several key areas, including:
Mobile Quality Assurance Testing Equipment
This will serve selected border communities in Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, ensuring that products meet required standards.
Accreditation Services Agency
This will support UNBS in gaining accreditation for its regional laboratories in Gulu, Mbale, and Mbarara, as well as expanding the scope of accredited laboratories.
Equipment for Border Post Laboratory
This will enable the testing and facilitation of compliance with set biological, chemical, and pesticide residue parameters.
Climate Change Initiatives
UNBS will receive support for its assessor and auditor on climate change initiatives, registration, and certification of auditors.
This partnership is a significant step towards enhancing Uganda’s agricultural sector, which is a critical component of the country’s economy. By promoting standardization and export of agro-industrial products, Uganda can increase its competitiveness in the global market and improve the livelihoods of its citizens.
Trade Mark Africa has been working to establish and strengthen standards in the East African region, and this partnership is a testament to their commitment to improving trade facilitation and competitiveness.
The Uganda National Bureau of Standards has also been actively engaged in promoting standards and quality assurance in the country, and this partnership will further enhance their efforts.
Overall, this partnership is a positive development for Uganda’s agro-industrial sector, and it is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s economy and trade competitiveness.