The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has raised concern over persistent understaffing, warning that the challenge is slowing efforts to meet growing demand for product quality assurance across the country.
UNBS officials say the limited staffing levels are affecting the institution’s ability to fully implement its ambitious “tenfold growth strategy,” which aims to increase annual revenue from Shs50 billion to Shs500 billion.
Staffing Gap Threatens Tenfold Strategy
Speaking during a media engagement held at Mbale Resort Hotel, Victoria Namutebi Wamala, the Senior Public Relations Officer at UNBS, revealed that the bureau requires at least 1,200 staff members to effectively execute its mandate nationwide.
“Currently, we are slightly above 600 staff, which is far below what is required to achieve the tenfold goal,” Namutebi said, describing the shortfall as a major setback to the agency’s expansion plans.
She emphasized that the increasing demand for quality assurance services, especially with the growth of local manufacturing and cross-border trade, has put immense pressure on the existing workforce.
Regional Laboratories to Improve Access
Despite the staffing constraints, Namutebi noted that UNBS has expanded its footprint by establishing regional laboratories, including facilities at key border points and three additional locations across the country.
“These regional labs ensure we can reach more businesses, even if not every corner of the country,” she explained.
She added that the expansion is part of a strategic shift by UNBS from a purely enforcement-based approach to one that emphasizes “hand-holding” micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to help them meet required quality standards.
Focus on Supporting MSMEs
According to Namutebi, the new strategy is aimed at nurturing compliance and improving product quality by working closely with enterprises rather than penalizing them.
“Our focus now is to grow quality by supporting MSMEs through guidance and capacity building,” she said.
Partners Highlight Reduced Costs
Praxeda Ndagire, the Country Programs Manager at TradeMark Africa, said businesses are already benefiting from improved access to testing services.
“Clients can now easily access the laboratories established with support from TradeMark Africa at a reduced cost,” Ndagire noted, adding that the initiative is easing the burden on traders and manufacturers seeking certification.
Call for Media Support
UNBS officials have called on the media to play a greater role in amplifying public awareness about quality standards, compliance requirements, and the bureau’s evolving approach.
They believe increased media engagement will help bridge the information gap, promote compliance, and support the broader goal of improving the quality of products on the Ugandan market.
