Parliament has directed the Committee on Trade, Tourism, and Cooperatives to carry out a detailed investigation into the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) following growing complaints about mismanagement and inefficiency. Lawmakers say the bureau’s poor operations are not only hurting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) but also affecting the quality and safety of goods on the Ugandan market.
During a recent parliamentary sitting, several Members of Parliament expressed concern that UNBS, which is supposed to ensure standards and protect consumers, may have fallen short of its responsibilities. They accused the institution of having governance gaps, poor coordination, and unclear procedures that have made it difficult for local entrepreneurs to thrive.
Some MPs argued that small businesses are being unfairly targeted with strict or inconsistent regulations, while larger companies seem to operate with more freedom. They said this imbalance has discouraged local investors and slowed business growth across different sectors.
The legislators also highlighted that inefficiency at UNBS could be putting consumers at risk, as substandard goods continue to find their way into shops and markets. They emphasized that ensuring proper regulation and fair enforcement is key to protecting both traders and the public.
The Committee on Trade, Tourism, and Cooperatives has now been tasked to investigate all these concerns, examine UNBS’s leadership structure, and assess whether the institution is still fulfilling its mandate effectively. The committee is expected to report back to Parliament with findings and recommendations on how to restore confidence and efficiency within the standards body.
As the probe begins, many Ugandan entrepreneurs hope the process will bring long-awaited reforms that will make doing business easier, fairer, and more transparent.
