UNBS translates standards procedures to luganda

KAMPALA - The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has simplified and translated into Luganda hygiene and labelling standards process applied by small and micro enterprises when producing foods & drinks as well as pre-packaged goods. 

This is aimed at increasing compliance to standards among Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as a way of getting more of them certified by the standards custodian. 

The move by UNBS and Uganda Small Scale Industries Association (USSIA) is aimed at simplifying processes MSMEs are required to undergo before getting certified by UNBS. 

Officials said the move was informed by a needs-assessment conducted among MSMEs that established that many of them were having challenges with understanding how to comply with standards, something that was hindering them from getting certified. 

"We asked UNBS to breakdown the standards policy in ways through which it could be understood and today, one of our concerns has been answered," Veronica Namwanje, USSIA's executive secretary said. 

UNBS deputy executive director in charge of standards Patricia Ejalu said this shall improve MSMEs access to both local and international markets. 

UNBS on Thursday handed over a total of 14,000 brochures in simplified English and Luganda to USSIA for distribution among its members across the country. 

Brochures explain how to practice hygiene in the food and drink manufacturing industry and general requirements for labelling of pre-packaged goods.