Uproar after KEBS admits it does not test locally-produced consumer goods for health, safety

The Kenya Bureau of Standards (Kebs) is facing intense public backlash following a stunning admission by its acting Managing Director, Esther Ngari that goods manufactured and sold within Kenya are not subject to testing by the authority, triggering concerns over consumer safety and product quality.

Appearing before the Public Accounts Committee, Ngari disclosed that Kebs does not engage in testing to determine the suitability of products. Instead, the bureau relies on the trust placed in manufacturers to uphold high standards of production.

Ngari clarified that Kebs’ focus lies in inspecting the facilities used by manufacturers who fulfill the criteria outlined in the Standards Act. Only those meeting the stringent requirements are awarded the coveted Diamond mark of quality, signifying adherence to established standards.

However, the revelation has left members of the committee and the public deeply disappointed and alarmed. Wajir South MP, Mohamed Adow, expressed his dismay, raising significant questions about the safety of products consumed by Kenyans.

“I have always held Kebs’ mark of quality in high regard, but to learn that they don’t inspect goods, whether local or imported, is disheartening. How can we be certain of the safety and quality of what our citizens consume?” posed Adow.

KEBS managing director, Esther Near.

The sentiment was echoed by other members of the committee. Nominated MP John Mbadi called the situation “irresponsible” and proposed legislative amendments to hold Kebs officials accountable, even suggesting severe penalties like life imprisonment for those jeopardizing public safety.

Kenyans took to various social media platforms to express their outrage, criticizing Kebs for what they perceived as negligence and irresponsibility. The news has sparked widespread discussions about consumer protection and the role of regulatory bodies in safeguarding public health.

Nairobi Law Monthly spoke to Francis Orago, the Executive Director of the Kenya Consumers Organisation, who condemned the acting Kebs MD’s remarks. Orago emphasized,

“The admission by the acting Kebs MD is deeply troubling. Kebs has a crucial responsibility to ensure that the products consumed by Kenyans meet established standards. Their actions, or lack thereof, are a gamble with people’s lives, and this is absolutely unacceptable.”

Orago further questioned the integrity of the Diamond mark, arguing that both Kebs and manufacturers have failed to uphold its significance. He noted, “Manufacturers are driven by profit, and without proper oversight, their commitment to quality can waver. Kebs cannot shirk its duty to inspect and test goods – this is a matter of public safety and trust.”

As the controversy unfolds, pressure mounts on Kebs to address these concerns, restore public confidence, and take concrete steps to ensure the safety and quality of products circulating in the Kenyan market. The admission by Ngari has ignited a nationwide debate, shedding light on the vital need for robust consumer protection measures and vigilant regulatory oversight.