The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) is encouraging Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Uganda’s agricultural sector to adopt standards and get their products certified. This move is aimed at increasing access to both local and international markets.
The initiative aligns with government programmes like the Parish Development Model (PDM), Export Promotion, and Import Substitution, which seek to boost Uganda’s economy from USD50bn to USD500bn by 2040.
During a recent seminar in Busoga, Sylvia Kirabo, the Head of Public Relations and Marketing at UNBS, stressed that the government had prioritised 18 agricultural products for certification, including coffee, cocoa, cassava, maize, dairy, and cashew nuts. “Without the UNBS certification mark, MSMEs cannot access larger markets,” Kirabo said.
UNBS has already developed over 1,133 product standards for the agriculture sector. The move is part of the government's broader strategy to improve the income and welfare of Ugandans at the household level.
As part of the programme, MSMEs now benefit from reduced certification fees. Micro and small enterprises now pay 500,000 shillings for audit fees, compared to the 1,000,000 shillings paid by larger businesses. “We appreciate the government’s efforts to reduce fees, which will help MSMEs grow,” said Abubaker Bakulumpagi, Head of the MSME division at UNBS.
Additionally, MAAIF senior inspector Dr. Alexander Ssamuha highlighted the importance of using safe agro-chemicals. He advised farmers to consult with extension officers to ensure they use the right chemicals, especially avoiding banned substances.
The Standards Partnership Project, a joint initiative between UNBS, MAAIF, and TradeMark Africa, is working to ensure Uganda’s agricultural practices meet global standards, improving the country’s competitiveness in international markets.